CLOMIPRAMINE TREATMENT FOR SELF-INJURIOUS-BEHAVIOR OF INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION - A DOUBLE-BLIND COMPARISON WITH PLACEBO

The efficacy of the serotonin (5-HT) uptake inhibitor clomipramine in the treatment of self-injurious behavior (SIE) was tested in individua ls with severe and profound mental retardation, Six of the 8 subjects who completed a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial exhib ited a clinically significant improvement (50% or greater reduction fr om placebo) in the frequency of SIE. Clomipramine treatment was also a ssociated with improvement in SIE intensity, frequency of stereotypy a nd compulsions, teacher ratings of stereotypy and social withdrawal, a nd frequency of staff intervention required for problem behaviors. Adv erse effects (seizure and tachycardia/agitation) occurred in 2 of the 8 subjects. These results represent the first controlled trial of a 5- HT uptake inhibitor in the treatment of SIE in mental retardation.