The EQUIP study, which examines the quality, use, and impact of psychotropic medicines in older adults with intellectual disabilities, has uncovered that more than half of this population takes psychotropic medicines, including antipsychotics and antidepressants commonly used to treat mental illness.
Here are some key findings from the study based on data from the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging (IDS-TILDA):
- Over a 10-year period, approximately 60% of participants were taking at least one psychotropic medicine for mental illness.
- Antipsychotics were the most commonly reported psychotropic, with 40% of older adults with intellectual disability reporting their use.
- There was a significant decrease in the use of anxiolytic medicines (for anxiety) and hypnotic medicines (sleeping tablets) over time.
- Antidepressant use showed a notable increase over the study period, with women more likely to report their use.
- Those with Down syndrome were less likely to report taking psychotropics and had lower rates of mental illness compared to others with intellectual disability.
- For participants reporting behaviors of concern without any mental illness, a significant portion reported taking psychotropic medicines without access to critical non-pharmacological support services.
- Psychotropic polypharmacy (using two or more psychotropic medicines together) was associated with increased dependence for daily activities.
Dr. Maire O'Dwyer, assistant professor at Trinity College and principal investigator of the EQUIP study, emphasized the need for regular reviews of medicine use to avoid inappropriate prescribing. The study's findings also underscore the importance of access to non-medication supports, such as psychological therapies and occupational therapies, for individuals with intellectual disability experiencing mental illness.
Professor Mary McCarron, founder and principal investigator for IDS-TILDA, highlighted the complexity of issues related to psychotropic medications and stressed the importance of regular reviews and greater use of non-pharmacological approaches.
Dr. Maeve Moran, consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, emphasized the impact of unmet psychosocial needs on this population and the necessity for specialized interventions to address their mental health needs effectively.
Overall, the study sheds light on the challenges and considerations surrounding psychotropic medicine use among older adults with intellectual disability, calling for comprehensive approaches to improve their health and quality of life.
More: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-05-older-adults-intellectual-disability-psychotropic.html
