Comparison of community and institutional prescription of antiepileptic drugs for individuals with learning disabilities

The use of antiepileptic agents for individuals with learning disabilities (mental handicap) resident both within National Health Service facilities and the community was surveyed in the UK. There was no difference in rates of polypharmacy, but there were significant differences in choice of antiepileptic agent. In particular, individuals resident in the community were more likely to be in receipt of phenytoin, primidone and phenobarbitone, which are particularly recognized as producing adverse effects on cognition and behaviour.