Incidence of hypercholesterolaemia and hyperglycaemia in schizophrenic patients: Atypical antipsychotic medication and clinical variables

Abstract

Background: Atypical or second-generation antipsychotic drugs commonly used in the management of schizophrenia include risperidone. Risperidone is linked to the incidence of metabolic syndrome-related adverse effects. Objective: This study aims to investigate the correlation between the administration of risperidone therapy and the incidence of metabolic syndrome in outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia. This inquiry involves an examination of relevant laboratory parameters, specifically cholesterol, blood glucose, and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) levels, alongside an evaluation of pertinent clinical variables that may exert an influence. Methods: This study adopted a cross-sectional approach to receiving risperidone therapy for a minimum of three months at Grhasia Mental Hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Sampling was executed using an accidental sampling technique, targeting patients who met the predefined inclusion criteria. Results: The study enrolled a total of 97 participants, comprising 58 males and 39 females. Subsequent statistical analyses failed to demonstrate any statistically significant associations between hyperglycemia and various factors, including the risperidone regimen (p = 0.574), risperidone dosage (p = 0.619), and the duration of risperidone therapy (p = 1.000). Conclusion: Risperidone has a long-term risk of causing hyperglycemia in people with schizophrenia; consequently, blood glucose and HbA1C levels must be monitored on a regular basis.