Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Description

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by fluctuating cognition, vivid visual hallucinations, REM sleep disturbances, and parkinsonism. It is often underdiagnosed in South Africa, where pharmacists are frequently the first point of contact for patients with early symptoms. Because DLB patients are highly sensitive to many medicines—especially typical antipsychotics—pharmacists play a critical role in recognising possible cases, ensuring safe use of rivastigmine, donepezil, and levodopa, avoiding harmful drug interactions, and supporting families with education and referral to local resources.

Learning Objectives

After completing this CPD activity, pharmacists should be able to:

• Differentiate dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) from other common dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease, based on clinical presentation and diagnostic features.
• Identify appropriate management strategies for DLB, including safe pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, with consideration for the South African healthcare setting.
• Support patients, families, and caregivers by providing counselling, recognising medication risks, and directing them to relevant South African resources and support services.

Expires 31st December 2025