Weight Gain May Change Underlying Brain Structure, Function

Weight gain is a common side effect of antipsychotic drugs approved for the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. That additional weight has long been a matter of concern as a further risk for heart disease or diabetes. Now, a Canadian researcher suggests that this weight gain may have another dimension.

The University of Toronto’s Roger McIntyre, M.D., presented preliminary data today at APA’s 2013 annual meeting showing that in bipolar patients with acute mania, the added weight is associated with a decreased signal in the brain’s default mode network.

“Weight gain from medications is bad, but it may also be changing the underlying brain structure and function” said McIntyre.

To learn more, listen to this Psychiatric News interview with Dr. McIntyre.