HC Deb 18 June 2002 vol 387 c241W
Mr. Swayne

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what recent representations he has received regarding the prescribing of antipsychotic medicines to patients in intermediate care; and if he will make a statement; [61506]

(2) what advi e his Department issues regarding the prescribing of antipsychotic medicines for elderly patients; and if he will make a statement. [61505]

Jacqui Smith

No representations have been received regarding the prescribing of antipsychotic medicines to patients in intermediate care. In September 1998 we published a report on general practitioner prescribing support with the national prescribing centre. This document provides many examples of good practice including advice and support on prescribing in residential and nursing homes and involving community pharmacists.

Implementation of the national service framework for older people will ensure effective prescribing and administration of medication for older people. To support this, consideration is being given to the inclusion of a clinical guideline on the management of dementia within the National Institute for Clinical Excellence's programme of work. Such a guideline would cover the use of antipsychotic medication in older people.