After six months of anti-psychotic treatment: Is the improvement in mental health at the expense of physical health?

Abstract Introduction Morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular causes in patients with schizophrenia are higher than in the general population, a fact that has been observed more since second generation anti-psychotics came into general use. Objectives To determine the incidence of metabolic syndrome in patients with a previously untreated first psychotic episode, as well as the prospective changes in the parameters that define the criteria of metabolic syndrome. Method An observational study with a prospective cohort design including patients who were admitted to the Acute Unit of Donostia Hospital. Results A total of 21 patients were included in the study, of which 19 completed it. Just over one-quarter (26.3%) of the patients developed a metabolic syndrome at six months. Statistically significant differences were observed in the following parameters: (1) abdominal perimeter measurement with an increase of 14.6 cm at six months ( P  = .001); (2) triglyceride levels with a mean increase over the initial measurement of 48.99 mg/dl ( P  = .039); and (3) fasting blood glucose levels with a mean increase of 10.72 mg/dl ( P  = .001). Conclusions Significant changes were observed in metabolic parameters in a short period with the subsequent risk of associated cardiovascular events in a group of young patients. Actions are required to be directed at ensuring appropriate monitoring of these patients in order to measures to minimise the risks.