Posted by blueberry on June 10, 2006, at 8:22:41
In reply to labwork for antipsychotics, posted by psychosage on June 9, 2006, at 22:45:25
The two lab tests to do on any antipsychotic are fasting glucose and liver function. The liver function test actually applies to any psychiatric medication, not just antipsychotics. My doctor has me do these 2 or 3 times a year.
A rather inexpensive way to stay on top of blood sugar developments is to buy a glucose meter at the drug store and check it yourself once a week. Check it in the morning after not eating for 12 hours. Glucose meters come with guidelines that show what the normal ranges should be. If you notice your readings are getting out of the normal range then begin more frequent testing at various times of the day and contact your doctor.
If you are not significantly overweight and you are not on a high dose, the risks are low. I've been taking zyprexa for 6 years in doses ranging from 15mg to 2.5mg, now at 2.5mg, and my glucose readings vary between the midway point and the high point of normal ranges.
poster:blueberry
thread:655086
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060610/msgs/655176.html