Risk of hyperglycaemia and diabetes mellitus in persons with schizophrenia taking antipsychotic medications in Uyo, south-south Nigeria

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Treatment of schizophrenia with antipsychotic medications may be associated with increased risks for weight gain, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) but the associated risk factors for hyperglycaemia and diabetes in these patients are not fully known.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study is to determine the prevalence of hyperglycaemia and diabetes in patients with schizophrenia on antipsychotic medications and the risk factors associated with it.

METHODS: Eighty six patients diagnosed with schizophrenia were evaluated for glucose dysregulation using fasting blood glucose test.  Age and sex matched healthy volunteer group of 50 subjects was taken for comparison. Results were interpreted according to American Diabetic Association criteria.

RESULT: Study population had a mean of 34.52±8.9 years, 55.8% was male, and had a weight gain of 11.92±6.2 and a mean fasting glucose of 4.63±0.9 mmol/l compared to controls value of 3.83±0.47 (p<0.001). Hyperglycaemia was present in 12.7% of the population. The prevalence of diabetes was 3.4%. The risk of hyperglycaemia in the study population was increased for all class of antipsychotic medications (typical or atypical). Hyperglycaemia was more likely with increased duration of antipsychotic medication use and increased weight gain. There was no association of hyperglycaemia with age, sex, and duration of illness.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with antipsychotic medications was associated with a significantly increased risk for hyperglycaemia. There is the need for routine glucose monitoring during treatment with antipsychotic medications.