The Irish Times reports that most of the drugs being used are not authorised for over-65's or people with dementia, as they can double the risk of early death, and treble the risk of stroke.
The drugs are only meant to be used as a last resort when behaviour poses a risk of harm.
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However an investigation discovered up to one-in-three residents in some Irish nursing homes are being given psychotropic medication.
Side effects from these drugs may be linked to dozens of deaths each year.
