A SYSTEMATIC EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF METABOLIC DYSREGULATION IN SCHIZOPHRENIA: AGE AND GENDER DISPARITIES DURING ANTIPSYCHOTIC TREATMENT

Abstract

The present study aims to examine the effects of antipsychotic medication on metabolic biomarkers among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a multifaceted psychiatric condition, and the utilization of antipsychotic medications plays a crucial role in its therapeutic management. Nevertheless, these pharmaceuticals have been linked to metabolic dysregulation, resulting in various health issues including increased body weight, reduced sensitivity to insulin, and abnormal lipid levels. This study employed randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. This study employed a sample size of 120 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, who were allocated randomly into two groups: an experimental group receiving antipsychotic medication and a control group receiving non-pharmacological interventions. A range of metabolic biomarkers, such as fasting glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and body mass index (BMI), were evaluated both prior to and following a 12-week intervention. The findings of the study demonstrated a notable disruption in metabolic functioning within the experimental group, thereby providing empirical evidence to substantiate concerns surrounding the metabolic adverse effects associated with antipsychotic medications. Metabolic outcomes were also observed to be influenced by gender and age. This study emphasizes the significance of comprehending and mitigating the metabolic effects of antipsychotic therapy in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia in order to improve care that is centered on the patient.