AFAP Board Practice Exam

The medication that has a black box warning for an increased risk of stroke or sudden cardiac death in dementia patients is specifically linked to the use of atypical antipsychotics, like quetiapine, among others. The black box warning issued for these medications highlights the potential liabilities associated with their use in elderly patients diagnosed with dementia-related psychosis.

The warning emphasizes that treatment with atypical antipsychotics in this vulnerable population can lead to serious cardiovascular complications, including strokes and sudden cardiac events. This relationship stems from the complex interactions of these medications with the underlying health profiles commonly seen in elderly dementia patients, who may already have elevated risks for such adverse events.

While other medications mentioned also fall under the category of atypical antipsychotics and are used for similar indications, quetiapine specifically has garnered significant scrutiny in clinical studies that have reported on these adverse effects. As such, it is particularly important for healthcare providers to consider the implications of prescribing quetiapine to dementia patients, and weigh the risks against the potential benefits when exploring treatment options.