Implementation of an interdisciplinary psychotropic drug review process for community-based facilities.
A continuing psychotropic drug review process developed and implemented in 1986 by a community-based agency serving individuals with mental retardation was described. This process has proven to be a feasible and effective system that has taken into account the practical realities of integration into the community and the use of community-based resources. The goals of establishing data-based interdisciplinary team review, utilizing concurrent alternative treatments, and prescribing psychotropic medication at the lowest effective dosage only to those individuals for whom it proves to make a positive difference have been met. For the residents of the agency's facilities, this process has led to a low psychotropic utilization rate of 17%. Dosage levels have been reduced for 75% of the individuals who have been prescribed psychotropic medication.
Lepler
S
S
Toward Independent Living and Learning (TILL), Inc., Dedham, MA 02026.
Hodas
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A
Cotter-Mack
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A
D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D017723:Drug Utilization Review; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011788:Quality of Life
D011619:Psychotropic Drugs