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Certain neuroleptics reduce bone mineralization in schizophrenic patients
T Higuchi1, T Komoda, M Sugishita
1Departments of Psychiatry Saitama Medical School, Japan.
Neuropsychobiology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Certain neuroleptic drugs increase urinary calcium excretion and may impair bone mineralization in schizophrenic patients by affecting vitamin D metabolism. Further research is needed to understand these effects fully.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Schizophrenia treatment often involves neuroleptic medications.
- Neuroleptic drugs can have various systemic side effects.
- Bone health is a concern in patients with chronic illnesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of certain neuroleptic drugs on calcium and bone metabolism in schizophrenic patients.
- To explore the relationship between neuroleptic treatment, vitamin D metabolites, and parathyroid hormone levels.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of urinary calcium and hydroxyproline levels.
- Measurement of urinary alkaline phosphatase activity.
- Assessment of active vitamin D3 metabolites and midmolecule parathyroid hormone levels in patients receiving neuroleptics.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in urinary calcium and hydroxyproline was observed.
- Urinary alkaline phosphatase activity decreased significantly.
- Active vitamin D3 metabolite levels were reduced, while parathyroid hormone levels remained largely normal.
Conclusions:
- Certain neuroleptics may induce increased urinary calcium excretion by suppressing active vitamin D3 formation.
- Chronic neuroleptic treatment could potentially lead to abnormal bone mineralization in schizophrenic patients.