ANTIPSYCHOTIC USE IN CHILDREN AND THE ELDERLY

Project Leads

Dr. Tamara Pringsheim, Associate Professor, Departments of Clinical Neurosciences, Psychiatry, Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary

Dr. Lara Cooke, Associate Dean Continuing Medical Education and Professional Development, University of Calgary

Project Manager - Wenxin Chen

Background

The treatment of disruptive behavior disorders, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorders, autism and disorders of mood and anxiety has not been well validated, particularly in children.  In adults aged 65 years and older, there are no approved indications for antipsychotics other than for psychosis in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe dementia.

Laboratory tests should be used to monitor for metabolic side effects. Analysis of PIN data, diagnostic codes, and patient age will inform physicians about the frequency of off-label prescription of antipsychotics. Analysis of PIN data and laboratory data will inform physicians about their lab monitoring practices for drug side effects.

Intended Outcome

Provide physicians with knowledge of their antipsychotic prescription practice profile and monitoring program for patients on these medications. Physicians, with PLP guidance, will be able to access an educational intervention to help with knowledge translation and future professional development needs.