TREATMENT OF SELF-INJURIOUS BEHAVIOUR WITH A GABA (GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID) ANALOGUE

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Abstract
Self-injurious and other undesirable behavior is described in 28 mental defectives in a hospital. The effect of treatment with a GABA analog, baclofen, is given. Of the patients, [22] who are severely subnormal, and whose behavior had improved for commencing baclofen, were then followed up for 20 wk in a double-blind cross-over trial. Results, including side effects, are discussed. There was significant improvement in the behavior of many of the patients. In some, the improvement seemed dependent on continuing the baclofen, while in others it was maintained after stopping the drug, thus indicating that behavior modification had taken place. It was possible to discontinue, or reduce, other medication in some patients.