Clozapine in the management of persistent destructive behaviour in a 17-year-old boy with intellectual disability. Issue 11 (3rd November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dadlani, Navin; Small, Jacqueline; Starling, Jean; Einfeld, Stewart
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 13:Issue 11(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-11-03
• Subjects: developmental paediatrocs -- child and adolescent psychiatry; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-235346
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : The management of challenging and refractory destructive behaviour in young patients with intellectual disability (ID) is a major issue faced by families, carers and healthcare professionals who support them. Often, paediatricians and psychiatrists use various behavioural and psychopharmacological approaches, including polypharmacy. We report on one such patient who benefitted greatly from a trial of clozapine, resulting in less aggression, improved quality of life and potentially huge cost savings. We conclude that clozapine may represent a beneficial though seldom-used option for severe, destructive behaviour in young people with ID.