According to recent research published in the journal Postgraduate Medicine, "Recognition of the prevalence of mood disorders and increased availability of medication options have led to calls for treating bipolar disorders in the primary care setting. Second-generation antipsychotic medications (SGAs) were initially lauded for treating bipolar disorders because of their efficacy and perceived safety relative to first-generation antipsychotic medications."

"Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, which may emerge when treating bipolar disorders with SGAs. We conducted a search of the research literature examining the association between different SGAs and metabolic syndrome," wrote P.F. Bell and colleagues (see also Bipolar Disorder).

The researchers concluded: "Based on our review, we offer guidelines for monitoring patient status regarding metabolic syndrome and for providing interventions to promote healthy diet and exercise."

Bell and colleagues published their study in Postgraduate Medicine (Treatment of Bipolar Disorders and Metabolic Syndrome: Implications for Primary Care. Postgraduate Medicine, 2009;121(5):140-144).

For additional information, contact P.F. Bell, Heritage Valley Health Systems, 918 3rd Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010, USA.

The publisher's contact information for the journal Postgraduate Medicine is: Jte Multimedia, 1235 Westlakes Dr., Ste. 220, Berwyn, PA 19312, USA.