Efficacy of atypical antipsychotic medication in the management of behaviour problems in children with intellectual disabilities and borderline intelligence: A systematic review

The use of medications to manage problem behaviours is widespread. However, robust evidence to support their use seems to be lacking. The aim was to review research evidence into the efficacy of atypical antipsychotic medication in managing problem behaviour in children with intellectual disabilities and borderline intelligence. A systematic review was conducted for placebo-controlled randomised double-blind trials. The included studies (N = 6) showed that risperidone was significantly more effective than placebo in managing problem behaviours. However, most studies highlighted adverse events primarily somnolence and weight gain. There is now some evidence in favour of the use of risperidone. However, because of possible adverse events, these medications have to be used with caution.

► Medications are used, in practice, to manage problem behaviour in children.
► Studies have evaluated whether such medication is effective.
► A systematic review found 6 RCTs which assessed risperidone in children with ID.
► Risperidone was effective in reducing problem behaviour all these trials.
► The studies also highlighted adverse events primarily somnolence and weight gain.