Do people with intellectual disabilities understand their prescription medication? A scoping review

Abstract

Background People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are more likely to experience poor health than the general population and are frequently prescribed multiple medications. Therefore it is important that people with ID understand their medication and potential adverse effects. Method A scoping review explored people with ID’s knowledge of prescription medications, their risks, and how medication understanding can be improved. Results Ten journal articles were included. People with ID often lacked understanding of their medication, including its name, purpose, and when and how to take it. Participants were often confused or unaware of adverse effects associated with their medication. Information was sometimes explained to carers rather than people with ID. Some interventions and accessible information helped to improve knowledge in people with ID. Conclusion There is a need for accessible and tailored information about medication to be discussed with people with ID in order to meet legal and best practice standards.