Antipsychotic medication and people with intellectual disabilities : their knowledge and experiences.

Crossley, Rachel and Withers, Paul (2009) Antipsychotic medication and people with intellectual disabilities : their knowledge and experiences. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 22 (1). pp. 77-86. ISSN 1360-2322

Abstract

Background Antipsychotics are the most frequently prescribed psychotropic medication for people with intellectual disabilities. Many people are prescribed this medication for 'challenging behaviours' without having had a formal diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder. Antipsychotics have been reported to have severe side-effect profiles, which can hamper quality of life. Materials and Methods Grounded theory qualitative methodology was employed to organize and analyse data from interviews conducted with eight adults with intellectual disabilities about their experiences of antipsychotic medication. Results Respondents had little knowledge about their medication, beyond knowing their regime. Despite participants experiencing side effects, they were accepting of these effects. A 'model of compliance' was generated from the analysis. Conclusions The prescription and administration of medication is another area where people with intellectual disabilities experience lack of control and disempowerment. 'Services' need to do more to include and inform people with intellectual disabilities about their medication.