Minimising polypharmacy to enhance care and outcomes for people with learning disabilities

People with learning disabilities often require medicines for various comorbidities. However, limited understanding of this population among healthcare professionals can contribute to high rates of overprescription and polypharmacy, which may adversely affect people’s health and quality of life. While polypharmacy may be appropriate and necessary in many cases, effective medicines management is essential. This article explores the challenges in relation to medicines experienced by many people with learning disabilities, family members, carers and healthcare professionals. It also discusses the vital role of the multidisciplinary team in reducing overprescription, optimising medicines use and promoting shared decision-making to enhance health outcomes.