Psychopharmacology research for individuals with mental retardation: methodological issues and suggestions.
Psychotropic medications are frequently prescribed for behavior problems and/or psychopathology among individuals with mental retardation (MR). Unfortunately, the methodological integrity of scientific studies that support the use of medications among this population is often lacking. A recent review of the literature revealed that many of the studies that have assessed the efficacy of psychotropic medications for individuals with MR are methodologically flawed. Thus, we have detailed suggestions to improve the quality of future medication studies and avoid the methodological problems that prevent the scientific advancement of psychopharmacological research among individuals with MR.
Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA. johnmatson@aol.com
Johnny L
JL
Matson
JoAnne
J
Bielecki
Stephen B
SB
Mayville
Michael L
ML
Matson
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D011600:Psychopharmacology / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011786:Quality Control; D012107:Research Design
D011619:Psychotropic Drugs