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Psychotropic medication use in people with developmental disabilities
1Clinical Pharmacy Services, Rosewood Center, Owings Mills, Maryland, USA.
Maryland Medical Journal (Baltimore, Md. : 1985)
|November 5, 1997
Summary
Psychotropic medications effectively manage challenging behaviors in individuals with developmental disabilities when accurately assessed. This review covers various drug classes for aggression and self-injurious behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Developmental Disabilities
Background:
- Psychotropic medications are commonly prescribed for behavioral issues in individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Accurate diagnosis of psychiatric disorders or behavioral problems is crucial for effective pharmacotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the use of psychotropic medications for managing aggression and self-injurious behavior in persons with developmental disabilities.
- To review specific drug classes including antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, beta-blocking agents, and naltrexone.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of psychotropic medication use in developmental disabilities.
- Discussion of assessment strategies for psychiatric disorders and behavioral problems.
- Analysis of treatment approaches for aggression and self-injurious behavior.
Main Results:
- Successful psychotropic medication use hinges on precise behavioral and psychiatric assessment.
- Various medication classes are available for managing challenging behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Accurate assessment is paramount for the safe and effective use of psychotropic medications in individuals with developmental disabilities.
- A range of pharmacological options exists for treating aggression and self-injurious behaviors.