Interventions to Reduce Weight Gain in Schizophrenia

Obesity is a common problem for individuals with schizophrenia, a problem that has been exacerbated more recently with the increased use of second-generation antipsychotics, many of which are associated with the risk of weight gain and metabolic disturbance. Recently, a Cochrane review has been published examining pharmacological and nonpharmacological (diet/exercise) interventions for reducing and/or preventing weight gain in this population. The objective of the review was to determine the effects of both pharmacological (excluding medication switching) and nonpharmacological strategies for reducing or preventing weight gain in individuals with schizophrenia. We searched key databases and the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's trials register and reference sections within relevant articles, hand searched key journals, and contacted the first author of each relevant study and other experts to collect further information. All clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any pharmacological or nonpharmacological intervention for weight gain (eg, diet and exercise counseling including elements of cognitive and/or behavioral modification) with standard care or other treatments for individuals with schizophrenia or schizophrenia-like illnesses were selected.