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Risperidone induced weight gain leading to benign intracranial hypertension
1Epsom General Hospital, Epsom and St Helier University NHS Trust, Epsom, Surrey, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|June 13, 2012
Summary
Antipsychotic medications, particularly atypical ones, can cause weight gain, potentially leading to benign intracranial hypertension (BIH). Obese patients experiencing headaches while on these drugs should be evaluated for BIH.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) is frequently linked to weight gain.
- Weight gain is a known adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, especially atypical agents.
Observation:
- A case study involving a young, obese female patient who initiated risperidone treatment.
- The patient experienced significant weight gain followed by symptoms of headache and blurred vision.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of risperidone led to weight reduction and symptom improvement.
- Combined treatment with acetazolamide and drug withdrawal resolved symptoms within one month.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider investigating BIH in obese patients on antipsychotic medication who develop headaches.
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring weight and neurological symptoms in patients receiving antipsychotics.
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