GPs urged to watch for gambling problems with common antipsychotic
Problem gambling is frequently overlooked because of its differences to other addictions, says Dr Cathy Andronis.
Adults prescribed aripiprazole therapy for schizophrenia need to be watched for signs of gambling addiction, according to a leading GP, who warns the side effect is often overlooked.
The atypical antipsychotic drug has been linked to impulsive behaviour, such as pathological gambling, binge-eating, compulsive shopping and hypersexuality, says Melbourne GP and psychotherapist Dr Cathy Andronis.
But she said this increased gambling risk was not often mentioned in Australia.
“There has not been very much written up about it … It’s discussed briefly in some circles, like the addiction medicine group they have in the RACGP,” she told AusDoc.
