Metabolic risks and effects of atypical antipsychotic treatment.

Weight gain and the associated increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease may be problems for individuals who receive long-term treatment with atypical antipsychotics. Atypical antipsychotics differ in their propensity to cause obesity and other metabolic disturbances. If a patient gains substantial weight while taking atypical antipsychotics, the physician should consider switching him or her to a drug with a lower risk of weight gain. The physician should also address patient lifestyle issues such as a poor diet and lack of exercise.