Medication use by adolescents and adults with fragile X syndrome

• Published in: Journal of intellectual disability research 2018-02, Vol.62 (2), p.94-105
• Main Authors: Laxman, D. J., Greenberg, J. S., DaWalt, L. S., Hong, J., Aman, M. G., Mailick, M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adolescents; adolescents and adults; Autism; Behavior problems; Drug Use; Family income; Fragile X syndrome; Health behavior; Health problems; Longitudinal Studies; Medical conditions; Medical diagnosis; Mental health; non‐psychotropic medication; Psychotropic drugs; psychotropic medication; Teenagers
• ISSN: 0964-2633; 1365-2788
• DOI: 10.1111/jir.12433

Background The behavioural challenges and medical conditions associated with fragile X syndrome (FXS) can lead to increased need for medications. Method This longitudinal study examined the use of prescription medications for psychotropic and non‐psychotropic purposes by adolescents and adults with FXS drawn from a North American community sample (N = 105). Odds and probabilities of continuing or discontinuing medication were calculated. Predictors of medication use were calculated. Results More than two‐thirds took psychotropic medication, and about one‐quarter took non‐psychotropic medication. Over a 3‐year period, those who initially took prescription medications were considerably more likely to remain on medications than to stop. Individuals with more autism symptoms, more behavioural problems, a mental health diagnosis, and greater family income were significantly more likely to use psychotropic medication 3 years later. Individuals who had more health problems, a mental health diagnosis, and were female were more likely to use non‐psychotropic medication over this time period. Conclusions Findings highlight the elevated and ongoing use of medication by individuals with FXS. Implications for social and behavioural research on FXS are discussed.