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Statistically significant increase in weight caused by low-dose quetiapine
Scott G Williams1, Nima A Alinejad, Jeannie A Williams
1Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307, USA. scott.g.williams@us.army.mil
Pharmacotherapy
|September 30, 2010
Summary
Low-dose quetiapine (quetiapine) is linked to significant weight gain in adults. This study shows a notable increase in body weight over 12 months, emphasizing the need for monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for various psychiatric conditions.
- The potential for weight gain with antipsychotic medications is a known concern.
- Limited data exist on the weight effects of low-dose quetiapine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between low-dose quetiapine and weight gain.
- To determine if preliminary data suggest a link between quetiapine and increased body weight.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective medical record review.
- Study included 534 adult military health care beneficiaries.
- Data collected from January 2005 to June 2008 at two military hospitals.
Main Results:
- Mean baseline weight was 175.68 lbs.
- Weight gain was statistically significant at 6 months (5.56 ± 1.25 lbs) and 12 months (10.58 ± 2.20 lbs).
- Weight gain showed a generally linear trend over the 12-month study period.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose quetiapine was associated with statistically significant weight gain.
- Highlights the need to recognize quetiapine's potential for adverse effects.
- Underscores the importance of monitoring weight during quetiapine treatment.
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