Anticonvulsant mood stabilizers such as valproic acid (divalproex [Depakote medication, Abbott]) have long been used to treat BDD, especially in patients with agitation, aggression, mood lability, disinhibition, and manic-like symptoms. Studies of valproic acid have revealed a mixed picture.

The atypical (”second-generation”) antipsychotic agents were introduced beginning in the 1990s and have largely supplanted the older, typical antipsychotic medications. The older drugs such as haloperidol decanoate (Haldol, Ortho-McNeil) and generic chlorpromazine (Thorazine tablet, GlaxoSmithKline) caused parkinsonian side effects (e.g., rigidity and tremor). The designation “atypical” refers to the relative lack of these extrapyramidal side [...]

Patients with dementia may experience many symptoms, usually in the context of an incurable disease. Because treatment cannot address all of these symptoms, it is important to have a specific goal or goals in mind when therapy is initiated.

Introduction
This article discusses the assessment and treatment of BDD. Although the primary focus is on pharmacological therapy, it should be recognized that medications should be considered only after environmental and behavioral management are optimized.