Work

Use of atypical antipsychotics by consultant psychiatrists working in forensic settings

Year: 2002

Type: article

Abstract: AIMS AND METHOD Atypical antipsychotics have less neurological side-effects than the older drugs but are only available as oral preparations. This may limit their use in forensic patients. We sent a postal questionnaire to all consultant psychiatrists working in forensic settings in the UK to determine their views. RESULTS The response rate was 60%. Respondents tended to overestimate the benefits and underestimate the side-effects of the atypical antipsychotics. The majority often prescribed atypical antipsychotics and depots together. Psychoeducation and serum level monitoring were used to optimise/monitor compliance by 50%. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Using atypical antipsychotics as monotherapy is problematic in forensic settings. The extent of polypharmacy means that patients may experience the side-effects of both typical and atypical antipsychotics. More could be done to facilitate and monitor compliance.

Source: Psychiatric Bulletin

DOI: 10.1192/pb.26.5.172

Authors: Carol Paton, Jose A. Garcia, Deborah Brooke

Institution: Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust

Language: English

Topic: Schizophrenia research and treatment

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: Eli Lilly and Company, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Cilag