Abstract
Background: The use of antipsychotic drugs in people with learning disabilities is currently receiving intensified scrutiny and attempts are being made to reduce it. Aims: A randomised controlled trial was designed to investigate factors influencing antipsychotic drug reduction among people with learning disabilities prescribed such medication for behavioural problems. Method: Thirty-six participants randomly allocated to the experimental group underwent four, monthly 25% drug reduction stages. There were no planned drug changes for the control group (n=20). Results: Twelve participants (33%) completed full withdrawal; a further seven (19%) achieved and maintained at least a 50% reduction. Drug reduction was associated with increased dyskinesia and higher activity engagement but not increased maladaptive behaviour. Some setting characteristics were associated with drug reinstatement. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of people with learning disability prescribed antipsychotic medications for behavioural purposes rather than for treating psychotic illness can have their drugs reduced or withdrawn.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 42-46 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | British Journal of Psychiatry |
Volume | 176 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 2000 |
Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Copyright:Copyright 2007 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.