Regional audit of depot neuroleptic usage in adults with learning disabilities

Abstract

A previous survey (Gravestock, 1996) assessed factors associated with depot neuroleptic usage in 79 adults with learning disabilities using mainly community-based services. The data informed consensus standard setting and this audit focusing on 32 out of 79 original subjects. At two year follow-up, five subjects had been withdrawn from depots; there was a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in subjects' median depot dosage and reduced concomitant usage of oral neuroleptics and anticholinergics. The importance of completing the audit cycle and other psychotropic medication monitoring studies in community learning disabilities services are discussed.