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Diabetic ketoacidosis associated with aripiprazole
C O Church1, D L Stevens, S E Fugate
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, South Western Oklahoma State University College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma City, OK 73101, USA. chelsea.church@swosu.edu
Diabetic Medicine : a Journal of the British Diabetic Association
|September 24, 2005
Summary
This report details the first case of hyperglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) linked to aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic. The patient recovered quickly after discontinuing the medication, highlighting the need for monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Atypical antipsychotics are primary treatments for schizophrenia and psychotic disorders.
- Postmarketing surveillance indicates a link between atypical antipsychotics and hyperglycaemia, including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Observation:
- A 34-year-old female with schizophrenia developed nausea, vomiting, and malaise within days of starting aripiprazole.
- Initial assessments revealed severe hyperglycaemia and metabolic acidosis, consistent with DKA.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of aripiprazole-induced hyperglycaemia and DKA.
- The patient experienced rapid symptom resolution and laboratory normalization upon aripiprazole discontinuation.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should monitor for hyperglycaemia in patients prescribed atypical antipsychotics, including aripiprazole.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing DKA in patients on atypical antipsychotics.
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