Regulatory Environment and Psychotropic Use in Board-and-Care Facilities: Results of a 10-State Study

Abstract

Results revealed high rates of psychotropic prescription and use, and not inconsequential levels of polypharmacy - within and across therapeutic classes - among board-and-care facility residents. Frequently, psychotropics were not used as an adjunct to alternative treatments, and were not associated with a psychiatric history. Extent of psychotropic use was related to the regulatory environment, suggesting that more extensive regulations and monitoring may reduce psychoactive drug use in board-and-care facilities, and more adequately ensure the appropriateness of such treatment.