A dedicated nurse-led service for antipsychotic-induced weight gain: An evaluation

Abstract

Aims and Method. To evaluate a psychosocial intervention for patients treated with antipsychotics with body mass index (BMI) >25. A total of 44 patients (mean age (s.e.) 37.6 (1.2); 28 female, 16 male) received dietary and exercise advice with motivational interviewing. Weight and BMI were measured at baseline and monthly thereafter. Patients were offered weight monitoring for 1 year. Results. Overall mean weight loss was 3.1 kg (mean 3.22%). Modal (range) weight change was -4.2 (-19.2 kg to +8.7 kg). Clinical Implications. Overall weight loss was not significant after 355.7 (32.5) (mean, s.e.) days. Determinants of response remain unclear. Avoiding weight gain in the first instance is critical. Further research will explore determinants of antipsychotic-induced weight gain and prevention strategies.