Effects of Zuclopenthixol on Aggressive Disruptive Behavior in Adults with Mental Retardation – A 2-Year Follow-Up on a Withdrawal Study

Abstract

People with mental retardation often display aggressive behavior against themselves or others making care within institutions or foster families difficult. Due to a lack of viable alternatives, antipsychotics of the first and second generations are often used for long-term treatment despite the fact that only data about short-term treatment exist. A short-time withdrawal trial of 12 weeks (n = 39) was extended at open label to 2 years. 31 patients received zuclopenthixol after the end of the withdrawal and were examined using the same instruments as in the withdrawal period (DAS, MOAS, CGI). Patients still treated with zuclopenthixol after 2 years (n = 21) benefitted, compared to the drop-outs (n = 10). Analyses of time trends revealed an early effect of zuclopenthixol which could not be enhanced afterwards. Zuclopenthixol proved to be safe and effective to keep a lower rate of aggressive behavior in adults with mental retardation also over a longer period of time.