Weight variance associated with atypical neuroleptics in nursing home dementia patients.
OBJECTIVE
Atypical antipsychotics have been reported to cause significant weight gain. This study examined potential weight gain associated with the use of olanzapine or risperidone.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review.


METHODS
Three long-term care facilities.


METHODS
Dementia patients (n = 50) given olanzapine or risperidone for the management of noncognitive behavioral disturbances.


METHODS
Weight changes over a 4-month period.


RESULTS
Overall, patients in both groups lost weight over a 4-month period. Four (16%) of the risperidone patients and no olanzapine patients gained more than 5 pounds.


CONCLUSIONS
Weight change does not seem to be a significant clinical issue for older dementia patients taking low doses of atypical neuroleptics.
Goldberg
R J
RJ
Department of Psychiatry, Brown University, Providence RI 02903, USA.