.gif)
Large numbers of people with learning disabilities are inappropriately prescribed strong psychiatric drugs, says a new research. The study is published online by The British Medical Journal.
When people without mental illness are prescribed psychotropic drugs, such as antipsychotics, which is given for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, it is probably to control their behavior, said the study's authors, from University College London (UCL).
Sheehan and his team members were concerned, as it is difficult to justify the use of strong drugs such as antipsychotics that can have side effects, except in specific circumstances. Some people are given such drugs for very good reasons. The researchers found that of 9,135 people in their study with intellectual disabilities and treated with antipsychotic drugs, 71% - or 6,503 people - did not have a record of severe mental illness. The study analyzed data from electronic health records held in 571 GP practices and found that 33,016 people with intellectual disabilities, with an average age of 36. Individuals with intellectual disabilities have an IQ below 70 and also have some difficulty in functioning on a day-to-day basis.
One third of those in the study or 11,915 people had a record of challenging behavior, 47 percent or 5,562 people had received antipsychotic drugs. Only 13 percent or 1,561 had a record of severe mental illness.
Older people with a record of challenging behavior, autism, dementia epilepsy and mental illness, were significantly more likely to be prescribed antipsychotics.
The study focused on the use of antipsychotics as it causes side effects such as sedation, weight gain and other metabolic changes that can lead to diabetes and movement problems such as restlessness, stiffness and shaking.
"Side effects can be managed, but the risks and benefits must be carefully considered before prescribing antipsychotics to people without severe mental illness," said Sheehan.
"Research evidence does not support using antipsychotics to manage behaviour problems in people with intellectual disabilities. Many people with intellectual disability and behaviour disturbance have complex needs and other interventions, such as looking at the support people receive and their communication needs, should be prioritized," he said.
"Antipsychotics, or indeed any medications, should not be prescribed lightly and are no substitute for comprehensive care," said Sheehan.
Subscribe to PharmaTutor News Alerts by Email >>
