Changes in psychotropic drug use in long-term residents of an ICF/MR facility

Psychotropic drug use of 139 persons residing continuously over a 10-year period in an ICF/MR was monitored. Results indicate an ongoing decrease in psychotropic drug use, primarily antipsychotic agents, as well as the benefits of ongoing monitoring of individual drug usage. This monitoring can be utilized to minimize side effects of medication. Information obtained can be organized and utilized to improve care. Drug histories, when used with other data pertinent to targeted benefit to risk of medication.