Research Objective: This analysis examines patterns of antipsychotic use after atypicals were introduced. It identifies affected sub-populations and posits how trends reflect clinical practice. Study Design: Data are from the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program for 1992 to 1998. Like Medicaid, this provincially funded program serves two major populations: the elderly and the financially disadvantaged. The analysis begins by examining overall trends in antipsychotic use as compared with all psychotherapeutic agents. It goes on to identify a sub-population of ODB participants who were �continuous users� and follows their antipsychotic use over two years. Principle Findings: Total antipsychotic expenditures rose by 300%, while the number of claimants grew by 25% and cost/claimant increased by 250%. �Continuous users� primarily fell into two age groups: (i) 25-44, and (ii) over 80. Conclusions: The rapid increase in atypical use, combined with their much higher costs led to a dramatic rise in antipsychotic costs. Whether their use is associated with cost offsets is a subject of debate, although there is evidence to support this. The bimodal distribution of �continuous users� may be explained along diagnostic lines, although it is likely that use of atypicals will continue to rise across all ages.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session the participant will be able to: 1. Describe trends in antipsychotic use. 2. Discuss clinical implications of these trends
Keywords: Mental Health Care,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.