Assessment of adverse drug events of atypical antipsychotics in cases with schizophrenia

Background: Atypical antipsychotics are the drug of choice to manage schizophrenia in general clinical practice. Antipsychotics cause various side effects, including metabolic syndrome, extrapyramidal symptoms, hyperlipidemia, weight gain, and hypotension in patients treated for schizophrenia. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the side effects due to antipsychotic drugs and their effect on the outcome in schizophrenia cases. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 cases with the diagnosis of schizophrenia were recruited. Cases were divided into five groups based on administered drugs (Asenapine, Iloperidone, Olanzapine, Aripiprazole, and Ziprasidone). Treatment procedure and side effect profile were documented. Drug side effects were assessed by a standard antipsychotic side-effects evaluation questionnaire. Cases were followed up for the status of side effects at the end of 1st month, 3rd month, 6th month, 9th month, and 12th month. Results: The rates of weight gain were 20%, 30%, 50%, 25%, and 15% and menstrual complications were seen at 2.5%, 7.5%, 7.5%, 7.5%, and 1% in all five groups, respectively. Lactation disturbance was observed in 5%, 5%, 12.5%, and 5% iloperidone, olanzapine, aripiprazole, and ziprasidone, respectively. The extrapyramidal symptoms were higher in the iloperidone group compared to the asenapine, olanzapine, aripiprazole, and ziprasidone drug groups. Conclusion: Atypical antipsychotic drug consumption leads to considerable weight gain and few metabolic abnormalities. Clinicians should estimate the adverse events associated with atypical antipsychotics and compare the benefits of antipsychotics versus the quality of life of cases.