The Short-Term Effects of Risperidone-Induced Hyperprolactinemia on Lipid Metabolism in Drug-Naïve Children and Adolescents

OBJECTIVE: The present cross-sectional study was designed to assess the risk of elevated prolactin levels and other hormonal or metabolic changes in children and adolescents taking risperidone. METHODS: Twenty-five children and adolescents [aged 7-18 years, 12.1±3.3 years (mean±SD); 19 boys and 6 girls] who had been taking risperidone for at least 3 months were enrolled. The following blood parameters were measured: serum levels of prolactin, thyroid hormones, alanine transaminase (ALT), sex hormones, lipids. RESULTS: The median risperidone dosage was 1.55 mg/day (SD 1.14 mg/day, range 0.25-4.00 mg/day). The prolactin level (33.65±16.71 ng/mL, range 5.8-68.3 ng/mL) was higher than normal, and was elevated (≥15 ng/mL in male, ≥23.3 ng/mL in female) in about 84% of the patients. The dosage of risperidone was positively correlated with serum prolactin level (r=0.767, p<0.001). The TG/HDL ratio was higher in the group with higher prolactin levels (i.e., ≥30 ng/mL), and hence might be a useful marker of insulin resistance. CONCLUSION: In young patients taking risperidone, a high serum prolactin level may influence lipid metabolism, even when cholesterol levels are within the normal range. Further investigation is needed around this issue. Serum prolactin assessment is recommended for children and adolescents taking risperidone.