October 12, 2022
By the editors
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The GOUD Academic Workplace has completed the latest measurements of a study into the withdrawal of antipsychotics in people with intellectual disabilities and problem behaviour. No fewer than 88 participants examined why dismantling often does not work. In a film, the researchers share the experiences of 3 participants, which show how complex a reduction process can be and what impact it can have on the client and his/her environment.
Antipsychotics are often prescribed long-term to people with intellectual disabilities and problem behavior. There is no scientific evidence that antipsychotics help with behavioral problems. Researcher and physician-VG Sylvie Beumer: “The unfavorable side effects, such as diabetes, elevated cholesterol, flattening of emotions, drowsiness, and movement disorders have been convincingly demonstrated. These side effects therefore affect health and quality of life. In practice, however, dismantling often proves unsuccessful. It is unclear why the phase-out often fails.”
Film
GOLD made a film to draw more attention to the dilemmas that arise when weaning off antipsychotics. Beumer: “In this film we share the personal story of three participants Jeremy, Kelly and Jan. Despite the fact that the results of the research are not yet known, the film shows how complex a dismantling process can be and what impact it can have on the client and their environment.” Watch the film Why is it often not possible to taper off antipsychotics? on Youtube
Results at the end of 2023
When can we expect the first results? Beumer: “Now that the latest data has been collected, we can start with the analyses. An exciting period in which we will see whether we can actually make the difference we hope for. We expect the first results at the end of 2023. Ultimately, we will return these results to those involved, but also publish them in scientific journals.” |
More information about the study at www.GOUDongrensGezond.nl.
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