MANAGEMENT OF ANTIPSYCHOTIC INDUCED WEIGHT GAIN IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE
MENTAL DISORDERS AT A TERTIARY TEACHING HOSPITAL
Abstract
Background: Antipsychotics are the mainstay in management of several
mental health disorders. Antipsychotic induced weight gain is a
predominant side effects seen in most patients. Objective: This
investigation evaluated the interventions employed in addressing
olanzapine induced weight gain in patients with severe mental disorders
receiving treatment in a tertiary psychiatric setting. Methods: A
retrospective observational study was conducted at Korle Bu Teaching
Hospital. Data was collected from medical records of patients initiated
on Olanzapine and reviewed using World Health Organization and American
Society of Health System Pharmacist guidelines on drug evaluation to
assess compliance with National Institute of Health and Clinical
Excellence and British Association of Psychopharmacology guidelines on
management of antipsychotic induced weight gain. Descriptive statistics
was used to analyse data. Results: A total of 188 patients participated
in the study. Less than half of the participants (n=57, 30.3%)
experienced significant weight gain from the use of olanzapine, and
interventions were recommended for 10 (18%) participants.
Non-pharmacological interventions and modification in pharmacotherapy
were initiated in 4 (40%) patients who received interventions.
Adjunctive therapy with metformin was initiated in 1 (10%) patient.
Cognitive behavioural therapy was not offered to any patient on account
of weight gain. Interventions were administered promptly in 5 (50%)
patients. Conclusion: Inadequate management of antipsychotic induced
weight gain was evident. A multidisciplinary approach must be employed
to ensure optimized management of antipsychotic induced weight gain.
Keywords: Antipsychotic, Weight gain, Olanzapine, Intervention, Mental
disorder