[Metabolic adverse drug reactions related to psychotropic drugs]

Metabolic adverse drug reactions (mADR) related to psychotropic drugs have significant health-related effects including weight gain, impaired glucose tolerance, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia as well as economic relevance. Nearly all antipsychotics (AP) and many antidepressants (AD) and mood stabilisers may induce weight gain. Weight development in the first weeks or months after the beginning of the therapy is the strongest predictor for weight gain related to AP and AD. The most important risk factors for mADR are antagonistic effects at H₁-, 5-HT_2C- und M₃-receptors and antidopaminergic effects. However, several other systems are also relevant. Systematic monitoring of metabolic parameters is recommended in all patients treated with substances that are associated with an increased risk of mADR. Lifestyle modification, dietary measures, exercise therapy, dose reduction, change and discontinuation of the substance, and additional treatment with metformin and topiramate are evidence-based treatment options for AP-associated weight gain. GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide are also promising.