Prevalence of antipsychotic use and associated adverse effects in moroccan with mental health problems

INTRODUCTION: Antipsychotic drugs are widely prescribed for schizophrenia and other mental disorders. They are critical in the pharmacological management of severe psychotic disorder. The adverse effects of antipsychotics are common, with a potential negative impact on adherence and engagement. Despite this, the scientific study of the prevalence of adverse antipsychotic effects is a neglected area. OBJECTIVES: We aim to identify the prevalence of nine clinically important categories of antipsychotic adverse effects, namely: extrapyramidal symptoms; sedation; weight gain; type II diabetes; hyperprolactinaemia; metabolic syndrome, dyslipidaemia; sexual dysfunction; and cardiovascular effects METHODS: This is a prospective, observational, cross-sectional study, carried out in Ar-razi hospital in Salé evaluating side effects in patients hospitalized and treated with antipsychotics within 3 months. RESULTS: In total, antipsychotic polypharmacy was associated with increased frequency of adverse effects, and a longer duration of treatment is associated with greater severity; clozapine was more strongly associated with metabolic disturbance than other antipsychotics in three studies and olanzapine was associated with the most weight gain in three studies; hyperprolactinemia was more common in women than men, but more men noted sexual dysfunction than women; CONCLUSIONS: Antipsychotic adverse effects are diverse and frequently experienced, but are not often systematically assessed. There is a need for further scientific study concerning the management of these side effects. DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST: None Declared