Significant Weight Gain With the Administration of Lurasidone and Valproic Acid in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder Patients

Cureus. 2023 Nov 18;15(11):e49005. doi: 10.7759/cureus.49005. eCollection 2023 Nov.

Abstract

Antipsychotics are frequently used to treat psychiatric disorders and have been associated with weight gain. Mental disorders are likely to reduce patients' quality of life. Unhealthy lifestyles such as reduced physical activity, sleep disturbances, and irregular diets can lead to weight gain. Herein, we report two cases of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder who had a 10-kg gain in weight in six months with the administration of lurasidone and valproic acid. Lurasidone has fewer side effects, such as weight gain and somnolence. However, concomitant use of sedating antipsychotics or mood stabilizers in the acute phase and multiple doses increase the risk of weight gain. Additionally, various factors, including psychiatric symptoms and lifestyle changes, are believed to contribute to weight gain, and a comprehensive approach should be followed.

Keywords: lurasidone; mood stabilizer; schizophrenia; valproic acid; weight gain.

Publication types

  • Case Reports