A retrospective study of mentally retarded patients with behavioral disorders who were treated with carbamazapine

Institutionalized mentally retarded residents (N = 76) referred to a psychiatry clinic for behavioral disorders were prescribed carbamazapine after other medications had proved ineffective. Target symptoms were identified and severity and frequency scales established on the basis of multidiscipline input. A retrospective study was then conducted using previous medications and behavioral data as controls. Thirty patients responded significantly, with essentially complete remission of symptoms; 10 improved but did not meet study criteria; and 31 showed no benefit. Of the 30 responders, 27 had a previously diagnosed EEG abnormality or a seizure disorder well-controlled with other anticonvulsants.