Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates Beyond Metformin: Probiotics and Antipsychotic Weight Gain
May 6, 2025
Dr. Oliver Freudenreich, a Boston-based psychiatrist, dives into the fascinating world of probiotics and their potential to combat weight gain linked to antipsychotics like olanzapine. He discusses the probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila, suggesting it could be key to maintaining metabolic health. The conversation explores how gut health impacts weight management for patients on antipsychotics. Dr. Freudenreich also highlights the challenges of incorporating probiotics into treatment, paving the way for a holistic approach to psychiatric care.
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Patient Stops Olanzapine Due To Weight
- A patient named Maria stopped olanzapine due to rapid weight gain despite symptom improvement.
- This illustrates the challenge of metabolic side effects limiting antipsychotic adherence.
Akkermansia Protects Gut Barrier
- Akkermansia muciniphila maintains the gut mucin barrier by degrading old mucin and promoting replenishment.
- This process prevents increased gut permeability linked to immune activation and inflammation.
Gut Microbiota Links To Weight
- Antipsychotics alter gut microbiota, changing signals related to food intake and weight gain.
- Metformin benefits weight partly by increasing Akkermansia populations in the gut.