Treatment of sexual disinhibition in dementia: case reports and review of the literature

Am J Ther. 2004 May-Jun;11(3):231-5. doi: 10.1097/00045391-200405000-00013.

Abstract

Behavioral problems are common in dementia patients. They are complex in nature and are often the presenting symptoms of dementia. Its management poses continuous challenge. Gabapentin is an antiepileptic agent that has a role in the management of behavioral problems in demented patients such as agitation and aggression. Its role in treating sexual disinhibition has never been addressed. We describe 3 nursing home residents in 2 dementia units whose sexual disinhibition was effectively treated with gabapentin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetates / pharmacokinetics
  • Acetates / therapeutic use*
  • Aged
  • Amines*
  • Anticonvulsants / pharmacokinetics
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids*
  • Dementia / complications*
  • Dementia / physiopathology
  • Gabapentin
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sexual Behavior / drug effects*
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid*

Substances

  • Acetates
  • Amines
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
  • Gabapentin