Metabolic disturbances in schizophrenia: Association with disease and drugs

Schizophrenia is a chronic and complex psychiatry disorder. Metabolic complications are commonly seen in patients with schizophrenia both in drug naive as well as treatment experienced patients. The disease itself is known for some of the derangements in metabolic parameters. Similarly, many of the antipsychotics especially second generation antipsychotics can cause metabolic disturbances which may complicate the management of schizophrenia. Long duration of treatment with second generation antipsychotics carry high risk of metabolic syndrome. It is important to select an antipsychotic with no or less potential to cause such abnormalities while treating schizophrenia. Selection of the right antipsychotic based on the potential to cause metabolic disturbances can be one of the important factors for successful outcome of the disease management. Similarly, regular screening of metabolic parameters in schizophrenia patients and treatment of these complications is equally important. Multi-disciplinary approach may be more beneficial in detecting and managing these complications.