A Review on Glycemic Intolerance Associated with use of Antipsychotics

Abstract

Background:
The prevalence of diabetes and other cardiometabolic disorders in psychiatric patients is relatively high when compared to the general population. Various researches suggest the predominant role that antipsychotics play in the development of such abnormalities among other factors.
Purpose of review:
This review examines the existing latest clinical evidence suggesting the role of antipsychotics in the development of glycemic intolerance and looks for a comprehensive explanation. The risk of cardiometabolic disorders is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality and the psychiatric population is relatively at an increased risk than the general population. Antipsychotics affect glucose homeostasis by directly affecting various receptor activities which are discussed in this review.

Summary:
The clinical implications of glycemic intolerance due to antipsychotic use are weight gain and other cardiometabolic abnormalities which significantly influence the mortality and morbidity of psychiatric patients. It is important to establish concrete screening measures and management guidelines for the early diagnosis and management of antipsychotic-induced glycemic intolerance and other cardiometabolic abnormalities. Further research is needed to establish the role of antipsychotics in glycemic intolerance to improve the management strategies of diabetes in patients with severe mental disorders.