Atypical antipsychotic-induced metabolic disturbances in the elderly

The metabolic side effects of atypical antipsychotics (AAPs) have been widely studied in younger populations, but research investigating these sequelae in the elderly is lacking. This article reviews the available literature examining the use of AAPs in the elderly, evaluating their association with weight gain and changes in blood glucose and lipid parameters. We find a relative paucity of studies in this area; while some data highlight significant, collective changes in metabolic parameters, the majority suggests an apparent low vulnerability to these side effects. We conclude that the risk and clinical implications of unfavorable metabolic changes in the elderly being treated with AAP medications remain largely undetermined, and we caution against drawing firm conclusions based on the available data. The conflicting evidence leaves us recommending that metabolic monitoring be implemented, with regular follow-up as advocated in other populations.