FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH REDUCTION IN ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATION DOSAGE IN ADULTS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION

Although antipsychotic medications have been successfully decreased or eliminated for many individuals with mental retardation, a minority s uffer significant deterioration dosages are decreased Records of indiv iduals residing on a 75-bed unit over a 5-year period were reviewed to determine differences in antipsychotic dosages over time. Presence of a psychotic diagnosis was a significant variable in increased antipsy chotic dosage. Use alternative medication (carbamazepine, buspirone, l ithium, and propranolol) was related to decreased antipsychotic dosage . Findings suggest that individuals with mental retardation who do not have psychoses suitable group for reduction and that use of alternati ve medications facilitate this process for individuals with or without psychoses.