Atypical Antipsychotic Use in Treating Adolescents and Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Atypicals are useful in treating various conditions associated with DDs. This population, however, seems particularly sensitive to NIMDs, hence caution and close monitoring are required.

Longitudinal prescribing patterns for psychoactive medications in community‐based individuals with developmental disabilities: utilization of pharmacy records

“…2000; Buitelaar et al. 2001; Friedlander et al. 2001; Van Bellinghen & De Troch 2001; Zarcone et al.…”

Practitioner Review: Psychopharmacology in children and adolescents with mental retardation

“…While 12 of the 15 subjects experienced a 50% or greater decrease on behavior ratings scales assessing irritability, four subjects terminated the trial prematurely (due to side effects or worsening symptoms) and many subjects experienced siginificant weight gain. Friedlander, Lazar, and Klancnik (2001) conducted a chart review of adolescents and young adults with MR who had been prescribed either olanzapine or risperidone. Overall, these agents resulted in robust clinical effects and were well tolerated, although a significant minority of subjects experienced dystonias or dyskinesias.…”

The Psychopharmacologic Treatment of Violent Youth

“…Beta‐blockers and mood stabilizers may be helpful in mentally retarded youth. Antipsychotics are becoming a treatment of last resort due to the risk they pose of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and impairment of cognition, even with atypical agents 55. Even when they are used, medications should always be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.…”

“…Antipsychotics are becoming a treatment of last resort due to the risk they pose of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and impairment of cognition, even with atypical agents. 55 Even when they are used, medications should always be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), a heterogeneous group of conditions associated with mental retardation, seizures, and disruptive behaviors, may manifest impulsivity, temper outbursts, excessive aggression, and self-injurious behavior.…”