Modafinil-Associated Weight Loss in a Clozapine-Treated Schizoaffective Disorder Patient

Authors: Henderson, David¹; Louie, Pearl¹; Koul, Pamposh¹; Namey, Leah¹; Daley, Tara²; Nguyen, Dana²

Source: Annals of Clinical Psychiatry (after Jan 1, 2004), Volume 17, Number 2, Number 2/April-June 2005 , pp. 95-97(3)

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd

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Abstract:

Background . We report a case of weight loss associated with modafinil-initiation in a clozapine-treated man with schizoaffective disorder. Methods. To report the impact of modafinil, a wake promoting agent that lacks the unwanted side affects brought on by many psychostimulants, on weight in a clozapine-treated patient. Results . Modafinil was initiated, and over the course of 1 year, Mr. B. experienced a weight loss of 40 lbs (from 280 lbs to 240 lbs) and a reduction in body mass index (BMI) of 5.08 Kg/m 2 (from 35.52 Kg/m 2 to 30.44 Kg/m 2 ). After 3 years on the combination of clozapine and modafinil, his weight stabilized at 230 lbs (BMI = 29.59 Kg/m 2 ). A 30-lb weight gain over a 6-month period occurred following discontinuation of modafinil. Reinstitution of modafinil resulted in a 10-lb. weight loss over a 6-week period. Conclusions . Modafinil treatment resulted in a significant weight loss in this patient, possibly due to reducing clozapine-associated fatigue. Randomized placebo-controlled trials are necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of modafinil for clozapine-associated weight gain.

Keywords: Modafinil; sedation; schizoaffective; clozapine; weight-gain; weight-loss

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10401230590932407

Affiliations: 1: Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA 2: Massachusetts General Hospital Schizophrenia Program, Freedom Trail Clinic, Boston, MA, USA

Publication date: 2005-04-01