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Risk for myocardial infarction higher among antipsychotic users

Recent findings indicated individuals who used antipsychotics had a higher risk for myocardial infarction compared with those who did not use antipsychotics. This risk was particularly high among users with schizophrenia or short-term use.

“Several different types of adverse events have been associated with antipsychotics such as tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, pneumonia, diabetes and more,” Zheng-he Yu, of Hangzhou Seventh People’s Hospital, China, and colleagues wrote. “Cardiovascular adverse events associated with the use of antipsychotics are well documented. However, it remains controversial whether antipsychotic therapy is associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction.”

To assess associations between antipsychotic treatment and risk for myocardial infarction, researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of nine observational studies that compared myocardial infarction incidence among individuals receiving antipsychotics vs. no treatment.

Individuals who used antipsychotics were 1.88 times more likely to develop myocardial infarction (95% CI, 1.39-2.54), compared with those who had not used antipsychotics.

Subgroup analyses indicated higher risk for myocardial infarction among antipsychotic users with schizophrenia (OR = 2.48; 95% CI, 1.66-3.69) and those with short-term (ie, less than 30 days) use (OR = 2.64; 95% CI, 2.48-2.81).

“In summary, the present meta-analysis suggests that antipsychotic use is significantly associated with [myocardial infarction] risk, especially among patients with schizophrenia or with drug use during the first 30 days. Clinicians should ensure that antipsychotics are prescribed only for patients with clear indications,” the researchers concluded. – by Amanda Oldt

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.