Discontinuation of neuroleptics in community-dwelling individuals with mental retardation and mental illness.

Many individuals with mental retardation and mental illness who are on neuroleptics can have the dose reduced or discontinued. A recent study, however, suggests that individuals with psychosis not only may be difficult to discontinue from neuroleptics but also may require an increased neuroleptic dose. The current study is a retrospective chart review. Individuals were followed for 12 months postneuroleptic discontinuation. Individuals with a "psychotic" disorder were significantly more likely to be restarted on neuroleptics at 3 months and 12 months. A logistic regression failed to reveal any psychotic symptoms that predicted resumption on neuroleptics. An absent history of delusions, however, was significantly associated with remaining neuroleptic-free at 3 months.