Conference paper
CAN METABOLIC SIDE EFFECTS OF ANTIPSYCHOTICS BE REVERSED BY LIFESTYLE CHANGES?
Alistair Bolger
; Clinical School University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; Jesus College Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
Norma Verdolini
; School of Specialization in Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
Mark Agius
; South Essex Partnership University Foundation Trust, UK ; Department of Psychiatry University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; Clare College Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
Abstract
Introduction: Antipsychotics, particularly atypical antipsychotics, are known to have metabolic side effects such as; weight gain,
hyperlipidaemia and insulin resistance. This is problematic as metabolic syndrome can be a precursor to many diseases, including
type II diabetes and coronary heart disease. In an attempt to overcome these side-effects, lifestyle changes have been recommended
in tandem with commencement of atypical antipsychotics, but is this effective at halting metabolic syndrome?
Results: There is some evidence suggesting that lifestyle changes can reduce weight gain caused by atypical antipsychotics.
However, there seems to be a paucity of evidence about whether this correlates with correction of metabolic dysregulation.
Moreover, there is a lack of research into the precise mechanism of metabolic syndrome as caused by atypical antipsychotics,as well
as a lack of evidence into how exercise remedies this. Furthermore, there is research to suggest that the pathophysiology of
psychosis may lead to metabolic dysregulation independently of treatment.
Conclusion: Lifestyle changes should still be part of a treatment as they seem to partially reverse metabolic changes seen with
atypical antipsychotics. However, more research is needed to identify weight independent mechanisms for metabolic dysregulation
seen in those taking atypical antipsychotics in order to solve this pressing issue.
Keywords
antipsychotic drugs; atypical; lifestyle changes; metabolic syndrome; weight gain
Hrčak ID:
265738
URI
Publication date:
5.11.2014.
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