Oral Antipsychotic Side Effects ‘Bothersome,’ Say Patients With Bipolar Disorder

SAN DIEGO—Side effects were experienced nearly universally by respondents in an online survey who took oral antipsychotics the previous year for bipolar I disorder, according to results presented at a Psych Congress 2019 poster session.

“Almost all participants (98%) had experienced oral antipsychotic side effects,” the poster reported. “Common side effects were feeling drowsy (83%), lack of emotion (79%), anxiety (79%), dry mouth (76%), and weight gain (76%).”

Some 200 adults with self-reported bipolar I disorder took the survey. The average age of participants was 42.

The most bothersome side effect of oral antipsychotics was weight gain, which was rated “very bothersome” or “extremely bothersome” by 68% of respondents. Half said the medication hurt their job performance, while 92% said anxiety, lack of emotion, and other side effects hurt their relationships with family and romantic partners.

Guidelines for Using Antidepressants in Patients With Bipolar Disorder

Some 44% of respondents stopped taking their oral antipsychotic medication without the agreement of a health provider. Side effects were the most common reason (54%) for doing so.

Side effects most likely to lead to reduced or discontinued doses were “feeling like a zombie” (29%), feeling drowsy (25%), and gaining weight (24%), according to the study.

“Side effects of oral antipsychotic medications were common, bothersome, and impacted social functioning, employment performance, and adherence,” the poster stated. “Findings highlight the need for new oral antipsychotic medications that reduce bothersome side effects.”

Alkermes Inc. funded the study.

—Jolynn Tumolo

Reference

Bessonova L, Velligan D, Yarlas A, et al. Treatment experiences of individuals with bipolar I disorder: findings from an online survey. Poster presented at Psych Congress 2019; October 3-6, 2019; San Diego, CA. Poster 107.