Psychotropic drug use in long-term care facilities: a review of the literature.

We reviewed 19 studies of psychotropic drug use for residents of long-term care facilities, located through a MEDLINE search of the literature published between 1978 and 1990. The review compares each study in terms of its sample, research design, and findings. The studies reviewed found that a substantial proportion of nursing home residents are taking psychotropic drugs on a regular, long-term basis and this usage is accompanied by prescribing and monitoring problems and many potential adverse risks.