The relationship between neuroleptic drug dose and the performance of psychiatric patients in a maximum security token economy program.
This study examined the relationship between neuroleptic medication dose and performance in a token economy program on two maximum security psychiatric wards. Patients receiving higher than average doses exhibited poorer than average program performance but there was a small but statistically significant positive relationship between neuroleptic drug dose (measured in CPZ units/kg) and program performance. However, this positive relationship existed only for the first few weeks of patients' hospital stays, and there was a delay (approximately 2 weeks) between the administration of the drug and the maximal positive effect on program performance. Only a very small minority of medication changes were ever followed by improvements in program performance. The results are discussed in terms of what is a rational strategy for the provision of psychiatric medication and other forms of treatment in institutional settings.
Harris
G T
GT
Mental Health Centre, Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological / Q000187:drug effects*; D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000987:Antisocial Personality Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003134:Commitment of Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D003299:Cooperative Behavior / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005555:Forensic Psychiatry; D006801:Humans; D007298:Insanity Defense; D008297:Male; D011567:Psychiatric Department, Hospital; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012637:Security Measures; D012917:Social Adjustment / Q000187:drug effects; D014040:Token Economy
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents