RACGP backs restrictions on aged care risperidone scripts
Streamlined authority would block GPs from prescribing the drug on a second occasion
The RACGP has issued a cautious welcome to a looming clampdown on risperidone prescribing in aged care homes announced by the Chief Medical Officer.
In addition to targeting doctors identified as high prescribers of the antipsychotic with warning letters, Professor Brendan Murphy says he will introduce new restrictions on risperidone scripts beyond the recommended 12 weeks.
“What we’re going to do is put a block so that you can’t prescribe it a second time,” he said, claiming that up to 90% of antipsychotics and anxiolytics in nursing homes are not clinically justified.
Antipsychotic overprescribing became the key issue when Professor Murphy fronted the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety last week.
