Metabolic Syndrome Among Adolescents Using Second-Generation Antipsychotics for Treatment of Conduct Disorder

Abstract

Abstract Background: The introduction of antipsychotic drugs has greatly improved the management of severe mental illnesses (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder). Second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic drugs are generally better tolerated than the first-generation (conventional) antipsychotics largely because of a lower incidence of extrapyramidal symptoms. The psychopathology of conduct disorder accounts for > 70% of pre-pubertal and approximately 50% of post-pubertal referrals to mental health services. Children and adolescents with conduct disorder are at a considerable risk of poor health outcomes, placing heavy personal and economic burdens on individuals and society, including the health system, social care, educational and criminal justice services. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are prescribed to pediatric patients for a variety of indications, including mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, emotional disorders, and conduct disturbance. Off-label use of SGAs occurs frequently in practice, with one published survey of child and adolescent psychiatrists revealing that one-third of respondents utilized SGA therapy for unlabeled indications.