Guide To The Potential Side Effects Of Antipsychotics

Weight Gain

Nearly every antipsychotic on the market will cause some weight gain, which is why patients should make a plan with their doctor to determine how they will manage it. If individuals gain too much weight, they may be at an increased risk of cardiovascular health problems, and they might also increase their risk of death from a stroke or heart attack. In addition, patients who gain weight on antipsychotics are more likely to stop taking them. The risk of weight gain seems to be highest with clozapine and olanzapine. The largest amount of weight gain tends to happen in the period immediately after patients start taking antipsychotics. Over a long period, patients tend to continue gaining weight, though it happens at a much slower pace. Studies have shown children are more vulnerable than adults to gaining weight from antipsychotics. Researchers recommend health professionals monitor the weight of their patients carefully and tailor the antipsychotic dosage to meet each patient's needs.

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