Weight gain in Asian patients on second-generation antipsychotics

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are linked to weight gain.
• Existing research primarily focuses on Caucasian populations, leaving a gap in understanding SGA effects in diverse ethnic groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To monitor weight gain and associated physical/biochemical changes in Asian patients initiated on SGAs.
• To assess the prevalence and pattern of weight gain across different SGAs in this population.

Main Methods:

• A 2-year health quality improvement project involving 266 patients at the Institute of Mental Health/Woodbridge Hospital.
• Close tracking of weight, physical, and biochemical parameters in patients receiving SGAs.

Main Results:

• 78.4% of 222 regularly monitored patients experienced weight gain (mean 1.9 kg, max 20.1 kg).
• Clozapine, olanzapine, and risperidone showed the highest weight gain liability.
• Most weight gain occurred within the first 6 months, with peaks at 8-12 weeks, and a secondary peak for olanzapine at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Weight gain is a significant issue for Asian patients treated with SGAs, similar to other populations.
• Regular patient monitoring, psychoeducation, and lifestyle interventions are essential for managing SGA-induced weight gain.