NY A04296

Prohibits off-label use of antipsychotic drugs with FDA black box warnings on elderly patients with dementia in nursing homes, hospitals, and other health care facilities

Bans use of antipsychotics as "chemical restraints" to sedate dementia patients, control behavior, or restrict movement when the drug provides no medical benefit

Allows antipsychotic use only in emergencies by dementia specialists or specifically trained professionals when reasonably necessary to protect the life, health, or safety of the patient or others

Requires immediate documentation in medical records of any emergency antipsychotic use, including the reason and dosage, plus prompt notification to the patient's representative or family

Classifies failure to comply as professional medical misconduct under the Education Law, with the Health Commissioner authorized to create implementing regulations