Atypical antipsychotic use in treating adolescents and young adults with developmental disabilities

Abstract

Objective: To study the usage, efficacy, and side effects patterns of atypical neuroleptics (atypicals) in adolescents and young adults with developmental disabilities (DDs) (mental retardation). Method: We undertook a chart review of adolescents and young adults (under age 25 years) seen by our specialized mental health team. Results: Risperidone and olanzapine were by far the most frequently prescribed atypicals. Robust clinical effects were noted for both psychotic and nonpsychotic disorders. Most patients tolerated atypicals well, although a significant minority did experience neuroleptic induced movement disorders (NIMDs), particularly dystonias and dyskinesias. Female patients with DDs appear to be at particular risk of NIMDs. Conclusions: Atypicals are useful in treating various conditions associated with DDs. This population, however, seems particularly sensitive to NIMDs, hence caution and close monitoring are required.