Pharmacogenetic markers of antipsychotic-induced weight gain: leptin and neuroepeptide Y

Abstract

Antipsychotic drugs are a critical modality in managing of schizophrenia. Although medications can be highly effective, response varies and some patients derive considerably less benefit than others. Long-term use of antipsychotic drugs is associated with the development of adverse reactions. Te safety advantages of the atypical drugs havebeen questioned because of their propensity to induce weight gain and alter glucose and lipid metabolism. Antipsychotic-induced weight gain is a common cause of self-discontinuation of treatment and a significant deterioration in the quality of life in patients with schizophrenia. Te severity of adverse reactions when taking antipsychotics in different patients varies, which be associated with genetic factors. Antipsychotic induced weight gain is a major health concern and unfortunately, there is no predictive tool to identify who are high risk individuals. Te LEP, LEPR and NRY genes represents a compellings candidates for genetic studies of antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Candidate gene selection should rely on current knowledge on the molecular pathways to weight gain, antipsychotic pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as well as possible disease-related genetic links to the side effects under study. Pharmacogenetics will provide rational treatment based on matching antipsychotics to a patient’s DNA profile, thus, potentially providing effective treatment with minimal side effects to outliers and mean responders to a given antipsychotic medication.