Effect of treatment on weight gain and metabolic abnormalities in patients with first-episode psychosis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present prospective and naturalistic study was to examine the effects of antipsychotic medication on weight and serum levels of lipids, glucose and insulin in first-episode psychosis patients.

METHOD: Fifty-six patients admitted to the Singapore Early Psychosis Intervention Programme participated in this study. They were assessed at baseline (i.e. within 72 h of starting antipsychotics), and 6 months later. Weight (kg) and height (m) were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Blood samples were taken after a 12 h overnight fast. Choice of antipsychotics was based on the treating physician's clinical decision. Total cumulative Chlorpromazine (CPZ) equivalent of antipsychotic exposure during the 6 months was calculated. Statistical analyses were carried out for comparisons between baseline and 6 months, and for the two outcome event groups of > or =7% versus <7% weight gain. Where appropriate, confounders were controlled.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were significant increases in BMI, serum levels of triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol from baseline to 6 months. Mean increase in weight was 6.2+/-7.0 kg (p < 0.05) and 65% of the patients had clinically significant weight gain (i.e. > or =7% increase from baseline). On logistic regression lower baseline BMI, female gender, and younger age, were associated with clinically significant weight gain.