Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among patients receiving clozapine

Objective: This study compared the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among outpatients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder receiving clozapine with a matched comparison group from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Method: Ninety-three outpatients and a matched group of 2,701 comparison subjects were compared according to National Cholesterol Education Program criteria. Outpatient data were obtained through physical assessments, laboratory testing, and reviews of medical records. Results: The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was significantly higher among clozapine patients (53.8%) than among the comparison group (20.7%). For clozapine patients, logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations with age, body mass index, and duration of clozapine treatment. Only age and body mass index were associated with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in both groups. Conclusions: Patients receiving clozapine are at significantly increased risk for developing the metabolic syndrome. Psychiatrists and other providers should consider performing regular physical health monitoring to prevent long-term adverse health consequences.