Pattern of Psychotropic Drug Prescribing at a Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Abeokuta, South West Nigeria

Background: The rational use of psychotropic medications in psychiatric settings is essential for effective mental health management and minimising adverse drug reactions. In Nigeria, evidence on prescribing trends in dedicated neuropsychiatric hospitals remains limited. This study analysed psychotropic drug prescribing patterns at a neuropsychiatric hospital in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Methods: A six-month retrospective review of 300 inpatient and outpatient prescription records was conducted at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta. Data were extracted on drug classes, specific agents, polypharmacy rates, and alignment with WHO essential medicines guidelines for mental health. Results: Typical antipsychotics (64%), particularly haloperidol and chlorpromazine, dominated prescribing. Antidepressants were prescribed in 24 percent of records, with amitriptyline being most common. Polypharmacy involving two or more psychotropics was observed in 41 percent of cases. Atypical antipsychotics were prescribed in fewer than 20 percent of cases, suggesting limited access to newer agents. Conclusion: Psychotropic prescribing in Abeokuta is dominated by older, typical agents, potentially limiting therapeutic outcomes. Access to newer psychotropics and updated formularies should be prioritised in national mental health policy. Keywords: psychotropic drugs, prescribing pattern, Abeokuta, psychiatric care, polypharmacy