Prevalence of antipsychotic use and associated adverse effects in moroccan with mental health problems

Abstract

Introduction

Antipsychotic drugs are widely prescribed for schizophrenia and other mental disorders. They are critical in the pharmacological management of severe psychotic disorder.

The adverse effects of antipsychotics are common, with a potential negative impact on adherence and engagement. Despite this, the scientific study of the prevalence of adverse antipsychotic effects is a neglected area.

Objectives

We aim to identify the prevalence of nine clinically important categories of antipsychotic adverse effects, namely: extrapyramidal symptoms; sedation; weight gain; type II diabetes; hyperprolactinaemia; metabolic syndrome, dyslipidaemia; sexual dysfunction; and cardiovascular effects

Methods

This is a prospective, observational, cross-sectional study, carried out in Ar-razi hospital in Salé evaluating side effects in patients hospitalized and treated with antipsychotics within 3 months.

Results

In total, antipsychotic polypharmacy was associated with increased frequency of adverse effects, and a longer duration of treatment is associated with greater severity; clozapine was more strongly associated with metabolic disturbance than other antipsychotics in three studies and olanzapine was associated with the most weight gain in three studies; hyperprolactinemia was more common in women than men, but more men noted sexual dysfunction than women;

Conclusions

Antipsychotic adverse effects are diverse and frequently experienced, but are not often systematically assessed. There is a need for further scientific study concerning the management of these side effects.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared