Dayabandara M, et al. – The propensity of several antipsychotics to cause weight gain, the pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions available to counteract this effect was contemplated in this study. In addition, this research examined its effect on adherence. The data suggested the consideration of the burden of side effects while prescribing weight loss medications. No strong evidence recommending the routine prescription of add–on medication for weight reduction was determined. Data interpretation was cumbersome due to heterogeneity of study methodologies and other confounders such as lifestyle, genetic and illness factors.

• Majority of the antipsychotics were known to cause weight gain.
• Highest risk was noted withwith olanzapine and clozapine.
• Weight increased rapidly in the initial period after starting antipsychotics.
• Patients persistently gained weight in the long term.
• Children were especially vulnerable to antipsychotic-induced weight gain.
• Tailoring antipsychotics based on individual needs and close monitoring of weight and other metabolic parameters served as the best preventive strategies at the outset.
• A shift could be made to an agent with lesser likelihood of causing weight gain.
• However, it carried the risk of relapse of the illness.
• Nonpharmacologic interventions of dietary counseling, exercise programs and cognitive and behavioral strategies were possibly equally effective in individual and group therapy formats.
• The nonpharmacologic prevention and intervention strategies illustrated modest effects on weight.
• An analysis was performed of multiple compounds, as add-on medications to cause weight loss.
• Metformin was the best evidence in this respect.