Examining the use of antiepileptic drugs in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Prescribing trends and associated outcomes of antiepileptic drugs and other psychoactive medications in US nursing homes surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic
This study looks at how the use of certain medications for Alzheimer's and dementia patients in nursing homes has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially focusing on the safety and effectiveness of these drugs in helping with behavior and mood.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877131 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the prescribing of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and other psychoactive medications has changed in US nursing homes, particularly for patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to understand the trends in medication use, especially as some medications are being prescribed as alternatives to antipsychotics without proper monitoring. The study will analyze the outcomes associated with these prescribing practices to assess their safety and efficacy. By focusing on this population, the research seeks to highlight potential risks and benefits of these medications in managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals residing in nursing homes who have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias and are being prescribed antiepileptic drugs.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or those not residing in nursing homes, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prescribing practices and safer medication management for patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated trends in medication use among dementia patients, but this specific focus on antiepileptic drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winter, Jonathan David — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Winter, Jonathan David
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.