Impact of perceived side-effects of psychotropic treatments on quality of life in patients with severe mental illness

BACKGROUND: Psychotropic medications are critical in managing severe mental illnesses (SMI) such as schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder. However, these treatments often lead to adverse side effects that can impair patients' quality of life (QoL) and affect treatment adherence. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the specific side effects of psychotropic treatments that contribute to a decline in QoL among patients with SMI, independently of treatment adherence. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 1248 patients diagnosed with SMI, recruited from a university psychiatric unit in Marseille, France. QoL was assessed using the Schizophrenia Quality of Life Scale (SQoL-18), and side effects were measured using the UKU Side Effect Rating Scale. Treatment adherence was evaluated using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS). Statistical analyses included Pearson correlations and multiple linear regression models to identify predictors of QoL. RESULTS: < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Managing psychic side effects and minimising polypharmacy are critical to improving QoL in patients with SMI. Clinicians should consider these factors when developing personalised treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes.