Heart risks of antipsychotics start early

Even a short time taking antipsychotic drugs can increase people's risk for heart disease. Researchers from the University of Melbourne reviewed 25 previous studies which tracked risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and body weight of people taking older or newer antipsychotics. Before taking the drugs about 40% of the patients were overweight but after six months 60% were. The patients had gained weight after one month on the drugs and had increases in their cholesterol levels after three or four months. As well as treating people with schizophrenia the drugs are also given to people suffering from bipolar disorder, personality disorders and anxiety.