Drug-related dysphagia in a person with developmental disability

Antipsychotic, antiepileptic, anticholinergic and sedative drugs can cause or exacerbate dysphagia by reducing saliva flow (causing xerostomia), inducing nausea or affecting neuromotor control of the swallow. Interactions between drugs, particularly those with similar adverse effects, can also cause dysphagia or worsen symptoms of dysphagia.

Weigh up the benefit versus harm of medications. When possible, and in liaison with treating specialists, consider stopping drugs or reducing the dosage of drugs that may cause or exacerbate dysphagia; see Medication reviews. Medicare rebates apply for regular referrals to a community pharmacy or accredited pharmacist for Domiciliary Medication Management Review (DMMR).