Bill Limits Antipsychotic Medication Given to Nursing Home Residents

Oklahoma State Sen. Stephanie Bice (R-District 22) has introduced legislation to limit the administration of antipsychotic drugs to senior community residents, reports Tulsa World . Under the bill, antipsychotic drugs are classified as a "drug, sometimes called a major tranquilizer, used to treat symptoms of severe psychiatric disorders, including but not limited to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder." Bice's measure requires written informed consent from the resident or legal representative. Should the resident be administered the antipsychotic in an emergency situation, a physician would need to perform a follow-up exam to ensure the proper diagnosis. Bice said the medications are being prescribed for nonpsychotic reasons, noting, "We want to ensure that if there is a medical diagnosis and residents need it, they get it." Care Providers Oklahoma CEO Nico Gomez said his organization is not opposed to the bill. "We can understand that people who care for our residents like we do are getting frustrated with the lack of progress that other states have made," he stated.