Characterisation of olanzapine-induced weight gain and effect of aripiprazole vs olanzapine on body weight and prolactin secretion in female rats

Rationale Atypical antipsychotic drug (APD)-induced weight gain causes non-compliance, increasing the risk of relapse and medical complications. Objectives In an animal model, we assessed body weights, food intake, body fat/lean body mass contents and blood serum levels of glucose and lipids in female rats treated with olanzapine (Experiment 1). Also, we investigated the effect of aripiprazole vs olanzapine treatment on weight gain (WG) and plasma prolactin secretion in two strains (Wistar and Sprague–Dawley) and in two housing conditions (singly and group housed; Experiment 2). Methods In Experiment 1, Wistar females received either vehicle or olanzapine (5.0 mg kg⁻¹, p.o.) twice daily for 14 days. In Experiment 2, female rats (Wistar or Sprague–Dawley), housed singly or in groups, received either vehicle, aripiprazole (2.0–8.0 mg kg⁻¹, p.o.), or olanzapine (1.0–10 mg kg⁻¹, p.o.) twice daily for 7 days. Body weights and food intake were assessed daily. Body composition and blood assays were analyzed at the end of the treatment. Results WG induced by chronic olanzapine treatment was characterised by hyperphagia, increased body fat, and serum free fatty acid content and reduced lean tissue and serum glucose content. Subchronic aripiprazole treatment resulted in rapid and robust WG similar to those observed with olanzapine. In spite of similar effects on body weight, aripiprazole and olanzapine stimulated markedly different patterns of prolactin secretion. Body weight changes and prolactin secretion induced by these APDs were significantly modulated by housing and by strain. Conclusion Assessment of body weight in the present model may not have predictive validity, and other measures may be needed to differentiate between WG-inducing and weight-neutral drugs.