Use of psychotropic medication in people with a learning disability.

ABSTRACT

The use of psychotropic medication for people with a learning disability is a controversial issue that has received much attention. This article explores some of the issues for learning disability nurses surrounding the use of psychotropic medication. There are concerns regarding the side-effects that antipsychotic medication can produce. Evidence suggests that some healthcare professionals, including learning disability nurses, need to keep themselves regularly updated on issues surrounding the use of these drugs such as efficacy, side-effects and interactions. Learning disability nurses need a clear understanding of the reasons behind the prescription of such powerful medication especially when it is used in the management of challenging behaviour. There are indications that learning disability nurses would support alternative approaches to medication such as the use of behavioural interventions. More healthcare professionals, direct carers and clients should be encouraged to become part of the multidisciplinary drug-review process.