Putting Metabolic Side Effects Into Perspective: Risks Versus Benefits of Atypical Antipsychotics

Notes that the side effects & morbidity associated with atypical antipsychotics might deter a psychosis patient from using them. However, schizophrenia itself is associated with a relatively high risk for several diseases, including diabetes. The clinician who might think, “Why use atypicals if a treatment choice of the typical drugs will escape the problems of monitoring for diabetes?” needs to know that these problems cannot be avoided simply by choosing typical antipsychotics. Clinicians must balance the benefits of atypical antipsychotic treatment- improved cognition, reduced suicidality, & less depression- against the risks of metabolic disturbances & must include a realistic monitoring program in their course of treatment. (47 refs)