RESUMEN
An ongoing screening program using pharmacists to detect tardive dyskinesia (TD) was developed, and a pharmacy-based prevalence survey of TD in chronic hospitalized psychiatric patients was undertaken to determine the extent of abnormal involuntary movements. The results show that older patients and women in particular are at higher risk for developing abnormal movements. Higher doses of neuroleptics were used in non-TD patients, indicating a possible masking effect caused by these drugs. By using a standardized rating method such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale, pharmacists can and should be utilized in the surveillance of TD.
Asunto(s)
Discinesia Inducida por Medicamentos/diagnóstico , Farmacéuticos , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Antipsicóticos/efectos adversos , Discinesia Inducida por Medicamentos/fisiopatología , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Servicio de Farmacia en HospitalRESUMEN
Oral liquid formulations of neuroleptic medications have been claimed to offer advantages in treatment of psychotic patients, particularly as a means of ensuring compliance. After a review of the literature, this 900-bed psychiatric facility found no substantial support to indicate that liquids are superior to solid dosage forms. Because of their higher cost, liquid neuroleptics were removed from this formulary. Few changes in prescribing practices were measured after removal of liquids; dosages remained constant and injectable neuroleptic and sedative use actually decreased. Replacing liquid neuroleptic dosage forms with solid dosage forms resulted in an estimated annual savings of nearly $60,000 at this institution. The authors conclude that liquid neuroleptics appear to offer no benefits over solid dosage forms in adult psychiatric patients and can be removed from drug formularies without disruptive effects on psychotropic prescribing practices or clinical care. However, further research is needed to determine the benefits of liquid neuroleptics in special clinical or psychiatric settings.