Management recommendations for metabolic complications associated with second-generation antipsychotic use in children and youth

Abstract

Background: Second-generation antipsychotics are commonly associated with metabolic complications. These medications are being used more frequently for the treatment of mental health disorders in children, which has stimulated the need for creating formal guidelines on monitoring their safety and effectiveness. Previous guidelines have been developed for monitoring metabolic and neurological complications. To assist practitioners who perform these monitoring procedures, a complementary set of treatment recommendations have been created for situations in which abnormal measurements or results are encountered.

Objective: To create evidence-based recommendations to assist in managing metabolic complications in children being treated with second-generation antipsychotics.

Methods: A systematic review of the literature on metabolic complications of second-generation antipsychotic medications in children was conducted. Members of the consensus group evaluated the information gathered from the systematic review of the literature and used a nominal group process to reach a consensus on treatment recommendations. Wherever possible, references were made to existing guidelines on the evaluation and treatment of metabolic abnormalities in children.

Results: Evidence-based recommendations are presented to assist in managing metabolic complications including weight gain; increased waist circumference; elevation in prolactin, cholesterol, triglyceride and glucose levels; abnormal liver function tests and abnormal thyroid studies.

Conclusion: The use of second-generation antipsychotics requires proper monitoring procedures. The present treatment guideline provides guidance to clinicians on the clinical management of metabolic complications if they occur.

Keywords: Antipsychotic medications; Children; Metabolic syndrome.