Droperidol in the management of hyperactivity, self-mutilation and aggression in mentally handicapped patients

An assessment of the efficacy of long-term oral droperidol in the control of hyperactivity, self-mutilation, aggression and temper tantrums has been made by reference to the case history notes of sixteen mentally handicapped patients. Behavioural disorders were greatly improved in four patients, and improved in six, and two experienced accompanying marked beneficial personality changes. In all but two patients Parkinsonian side-effects were prevented by the concomitant administration of orphenadrine or benzhexol.