Category: Geriatric medicine

For decades, ergoloid mesylates, an ergot alkaloid derivative also known by the brand name Hydergine, was prescribed to treat symptoms of age-related cognitive decline. However, despite its long history of use, the medication's effectiveness was widely debated and its formulation has since been largely discontinued in many countries due to modest efficacy and regulatory reassessments.

Agitation and aggression affect up to 70% of people with dementia. Historically, the potent antipsychotic medication **haloperidol** was used to manage these challenging behaviors. However, modern clinical practice recognizes its significant risks, including an increased risk of death, leading to a highly limited and cautious approach to its use in dementia patients.