Use of Antipsychotics in Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder
Abstract
Aims Emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) is characterized by affective instability, unstable interpersonal relationships, poor self-image and marked impulsivity. Patients may present with a variety of symptoms including impulsivity, suicidal behavior, affective instability and intense anger. This makes the treatment very patient specific. Treatment guidelines support the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as the first line treatment of EUPD. Currently, no medications are indicated for the treatment of EUPD which leads to off label use of medicines by clinicians. More than 90% of individuals receive a variety of pharmacologic treatment with psychotropic medications, especially second-generation antipsychotic drugs for the treatment of cognitive perceptual symptoms and impulse control behavior. Additional psychotropics are usually added leading to psychotropic polypharmacy which should be avoided. Aim of this study is to assess the frequency of prescription of antipsychotic medications in patients with a primary diagnosis of emotionally unstable personality disorder. Methods Protocol was registered with the Audit and Quality Improvement project team of the NHS trust and the audit registration certificate was obtained. Case records of 42 patients with EUPD who attended psychiatric outpatient department from June to August 2023 were collected and screened. A retrospective study was carried out. Inclusion criteria Patients above 18 years of age, with a primary…
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