Medication use by adolescents and adults with fragile X syndrome.
BACKGROUND
The behavioural challenges and medical conditions associated with fragile X syndrome (FXS) can lead to increased need for medications.


METHOD
This longitudinal study examined the use of prescription medications for psychotropic and non-psychotropic purposes by adolescents and adults with FXS drawn from a North American community sample (N = 105). Odds and probabilities of continuing or discontinuing medication were calculated. Predictors of medication use were calculated.


RESULTS
More than two-thirds took psychotropic medication, and about one-quarter took non-psychotropic medication. Over a 3-year period, those who initially took prescription medications were considerably more likely to remain on medications than to stop. Individuals with more autism symptoms, more behavioural problems, a mental health diagnosis, and greater family income were significantly more likely to use psychotropic medication 3 years later. Individuals who had more health problems, a mental health diagnosis, and were female were more likely to use non-psychotropic medication over this time period.


CONCLUSIONS
Findings highlight the elevated and ongoing use of medication by individuals with FXS. Implications for social and behavioural research on FXS are discussed.
['Laxman|D J|DJ|0000-0002-5505-9806', 'Greenberg|J S|JS|', 'DaWalt|L S|LS|', 'Hong|J|J|', 'Aman|M G|MG|', 'Mailick|M|M|']
D000293:Adolescent D000328:Adult D002170:Canada D002648:Child D011307:Drug Prescriptions D005600:Fragile X Syndrome D006801:Humans D008137:Longitudinal Studies D011619:Psychotropic Drugs D012737:Sex Factors D014481:United States D055815:Young Adult
adolescents and adults fragile X syndrome psychotropic medication non-psychotropic medication