A study of the knowledge that people with intellectual disabilities have of their prescribed medication

People with intellectual disability (ID) are frequently prescribed medication for psychiatric and medical conditions. Although knowledge of medication has been researched in other populations, few studies have addressed this issue in people with ID. A questionnaire was administered to 30 people with ID to ascertain the amount of knowledge that they had of their prescribed medication. The questions which appeared to be the most difficult to answer concerned side-effects of medication, alternatives to medication and other medications which should not be taken in conjunction with the prescribed medication. The findings are discussed.