Psychotropic medication adherence in correctional facilities: a review of the literature

Authors: SHELTON, D.; EHRET, M. J.; WAKAI, S.; KAPETANOVIC, T.; MORAN, M.

Source: Journal of Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing, Volume 17, Number 7, September 2010 , pp. 603-613(11)

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Abstract:

Accessible summary

• Psychotropic medication has been shown to be an effective intervention for managing psychiatric symptoms and relapse rates for persons with mental illness, but little is known about adherence to prescribed medications by persons while in prison.

• This review found five factors influencing psychotropic medication adherence among incarcerated persons with mental disorders. These were: personal characteristics, prior medication use, insight, environment and side effects. Abstract

Despite the high percentage of incarcerated persons with mental illness, surprisingly little is known about effective ways to increase psychotropic medication adherence in prison and upon release. Currently, there are limited definitive data regarding psychotropic medication adherence patterns among incarcerated persons, and the data that exist often miss specific information on changes in behaviour, symptom management and adherence patterns over the length of a person's sentence, which has implications for post-release ability to live in the community. This paper presents the current literature regarding psychotropic medication adherence among mentally ill persons who are incarcerated. The factors identified in support of medication adherence, future clinical research and care strategies are provided.

Keywords: adherence; correctional facilities; mentally ill prisoners; psychotropic medication

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2850.2010.01587.x

Publication date: 2010-09-01