Preliminary findings: Behavioral worsening on donepezil in patients with frontotemporal dementia

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, in the treatment of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Methods: Twelve patients with FTD who received donepezil for six months were compared with 12 FTD controls on behavioral measures. Results: The groups did not differ on most variables at baseline or at six months; however, the donepezil group had greater worsening on the FTD Inventory. Four treated patients had increased disinhibited or compulsive acts, which abated with discontinuation of the medication. Conclusion: There were no changes in global cognitive performance or dementia severity; however, a subgroup of patients with FTD can experience worsening of symptoms with donepezil.