Aripiprazole in young people with early psychosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of weight gain

OBJECTIVE Aripiprazole is often prescribed to young people, although there remain unanswered questions about its effects on weight gain. This study undertook a meta-analysis of weight gain occurring in young people with early psychosis who were prescribed aripiprazole. METHOD A systematic search was conducted for studies reporting on aripiprazole and weight change in young people with a psychotic disorder. A meta-analysis integrated the data into an estimate of effect size. RESULTS Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria amounting to 886 participants (mean age 18 years). The results showed significant weight gain averaging 2.7 kg. These increases were associated with a longer duration of exposure to aripiprazole but not a higher dosage. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight the importance of regular patient monitoring and the early implementation of interventions to manage antipsychotic-related weight gain.