Illustration depicting the challenges and hopes related to antipsychotic medication use in adults with IDD.

Unveiling the Hidden Crisis: Antipsychotic Prescribing in Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A critical look at the overuse of antipsychotic medications and its impact on a vulnerable population."

In the quiet corners of our society, a hidden crisis is unfolding. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), a group often unseen and unheard, are increasingly being prescribed antipsychotic medications. While these drugs can be vital in managing certain mental health conditions, their widespread use in the IDD community raises serious questions about appropriateness and patient well-being.

This trend, highlighted by recent research, unveils a complex web of factors contributing to the overuse of these powerful medications. From diagnostic challenges and a lack of specialized care to systemic pressures within care facilities, the reasons are varied and multifaceted. This article aims to shed light on this critical issue, examining the risks involved and advocating for a more informed and compassionate approach to care.

The potential dangers of over-prescribing are significant, ranging from severe side effects to masking underlying issues that might be better addressed through alternative therapies. As we explore the latest findings and expert opinions, this article seeks to be a catalyst for change, urging a reevaluation of current practices and a commitment to the well-being of those with IDD.

The Alarming Prevalence: Antipsychotic Use in the IDD Community

Illustration depicting the challenges and hopes related to antipsychotic medication use in adults with IDD.

Recent studies have brought to light a concerning reality: a significant number of adults with IDD are being prescribed antipsychotic medications. Research indicates that a substantial portion of this population receives these drugs, often without a clear psychiatric diagnosis. In some settings, such as group homes, the prevalence rates are even higher, painting a vivid picture of the scale of the issue.

The financial burden of this trend is also substantial. The costs associated with these medications are considerable, placing a strain on healthcare resources. However, the true cost is measured not just in dollars and cents, but also in the potential health risks and diminished quality of life for the individuals involved.

High prevalence rates of antipsychotic use in adults with IDD, often exceeding 30-40%.
Increased rates in group home settings, with over half of residents prescribed these medications.
Significant financial costs associated with the widespread use of antipsychotics.
Potential adverse effects of antipsychotics in vulnerable populations, requiring increased medical attention.

These findings are a call to action, urging healthcare professionals, policymakers, and families to examine the current state of care and advocate for improvements. It is imperative to scrutinize prescribing practices, promote awareness, and foster a culture of informed decision-making that places the well-being of individuals with IDD at its core.

A Call for Action: Protecting the Well-being of Adults with IDD

The findings presented here underscore the urgent need for a fundamental shift in how antipsychotics are prescribed and managed for adults with IDD. This requires a multifaceted approach, including better diagnostic practices, increased access to specialized care, and enhanced training for healthcare providers. Moreover, it calls for a collaborative effort involving medical professionals, policymakers, caregivers, and the individuals themselves to ensure the well-being and dignity of this vulnerable community. Only through concerted action can we hope to create a future where the healthcare needs of adults with IDD are met with compassion, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to their well-being.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1177/0706743717727240, Alternate LINK

Title: Antipsychotic Use With And Without Comorbid Psychiatric Diagnosis Among Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

Subject: Psychiatry and Mental health

Journal: The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Authors: Yona Lunsky, Wayne Khuu, Mina Tadrous, Simone Vigod, Virginie Cobigo, Tara Gomes

Published: 2017-08-22

Everything You Need To Know

Why is there concern about the use of antipsychotic medications in adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)?

There's growing concern because a significant number of adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are being prescribed antipsychotic medications, often without a clear psychiatric diagnosis. While these drugs can be necessary for certain mental health conditions, their overuse in the IDD community raises questions about appropriateness and patient well-being. This practice can lead to potential adverse effects, mask underlying issues, and place a strain on healthcare resources. Alternative therapies might be more suitable but are not always explored, contributing to the problem.

What factors contribute to the over-prescription of antipsychotics for individuals with IDD?

Several factors contribute to this issue. Diagnostic challenges in accurately assessing mental health conditions in adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) play a significant role. There's also a lack of specialized care tailored to the unique needs of this population. Systemic pressures within care facilities, such as managing challenging behaviors, can also lead to the use of antipsychotics as a quick solution. Financial considerations and limited access to alternative therapies further exacerbate the problem.

What are the potential risks associated with the overuse of antipsychotic medications in adults with IDD?

The potential dangers of over-prescribing antipsychotics in adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are considerable. These range from severe side effects, such as metabolic issues and movement disorders, to masking underlying issues that might be better addressed through alternative therapies like behavioral interventions. Furthermore, long-term use of antipsychotics can diminish the quality of life for individuals with IDD and may not always be the most effective approach to managing their specific needs.

Where are the rates of antipsychotic prescriptions the highest among the IDD population?

The rates of antipsychotic prescriptions are notably higher in group home settings for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Studies indicate that over half of the residents in such facilities are prescribed these medications. This elevated prevalence suggests that the environment and care approaches within these settings may contribute to the increased use of antipsychotics.

What steps can be taken to improve the prescribing practices of antipsychotics for adults with IDD?

Improving prescribing practices requires a multifaceted approach. This includes better diagnostic practices to accurately assess mental health conditions in adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Increased access to specialized care and alternative therapies, such as behavioral interventions and supportive counseling, is also crucial. Enhanced training for healthcare providers, caregivers, and families is necessary to ensure informed decision-making and promote the well-being and dignity of individuals with IDD. Additionally, policy changes and collaborative efforts are needed to create a system that prioritizes compassionate, knowledgeable, and unwavering commitment to their healthcare needs.