The effect of chlorpromazine on serum cholesterol in chronic schizophrenic patients

Abstract

In a series of 6 separate controlled clinical trials of antipsychotic agents in chronic schizophrenic patients, it was shown repeatedly that chlorpromazine (CPZ) exhibited hypercholesterolemic activity. In the analysis of covariance, the adjusted final mean difference in serum cholesterol concentrations between the placebo and CPZ groups ranged from 14 to 28 mg. per 100 ml. This activity was dose related in that it occurred with a fixed daily dose of 600 mg. administered for 24 weeks, but not with a fixed daily dose of 150 mg. or 300 mg. over the same period of time. The serum concentration of triglycerides remained unaffected under similar experimental conditions. This action of CPZ appeared unrelated to thyroid function and liver function as presently measured in the clinical laboratory. A consistent relationship to body weight changes could not be demonstrated even though increased body weight was noted to be a consistent result of CPZ therapy. In view of its extensive use as long‐term therapy, the possible role of CPZ as an atherogenic agent deserves consideration.