[From prison with coma].
A 42-year-old man was found unconscious in his prison cell. Investigations revealed non-recognized diabetes mellitus, possibly secondary to use of prescribed antipsychotic drugs. Second generation antipsychotics are associated with metabolic changes such as weight gain, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia. Severe side effects may also occur; e.g. diabetic ketoacidosis in people without acknowledged diabetes (as presented in this case report). Providing adequate healthcare to people with psychotic disorders may be a demanding task. When these patients develop somatic conditions, a multidisciplinary approach is required. Personnel from many specialities may become involved, and they are not all familiar with drugs commonly used to treat psychiatric disorders or how to deal with their side effects. Several guidelines addressing these problems have been issued during the last years. Norwegian guidelines should aid clinicians in decision-making when confronted with these dilemmas.
Saeverud
Håvard A
HA
Medisinsk klinikk, Lovisenberg Diakonale Sykehus, 0440 Oslo, Norway. hvsv@uus.no
Gerlyng
Per
P
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003128:Coma / Q000139:chemically induced*; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome / Q000209:etiology; D011329:Prisoners; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012307:Risk Factors; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors