Evaluating the Effect of the STEP@STAH Semaglutide Protocol on the Physical Health Measures of Atypical Antipsychotic-Treated Patients

Plain-language summary

A significant number of patients who are prescribed anti-psychotic medication such as clozapine are considered as clinically obese (BMI \>35.0). While this may be associated with the appetite promoting properties of the drug, other factors including apathy and lack of physical activity and exercise can exacerbate the weight gain. For those patients who are in a secure care setting and who have restrictions on movement, this provides a particular challenge. Therefore, a pharmacological option to assist in promoting weight loss would be an attractive option for patients who have reached levels of obesity and for whom diet and exercise alone may not be sufficient. The GLP-1 agonist class of drugs, including semaglutide (Wegovy®), have been approved for the treatment of patients as an adjunct to diet and exercise and for weight loss in adults who have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obese) or weight-related health problems. The aim of this study is to determine whether long-term treatment with Semaglutide (Wegovy®), in combination with dietary advice, exercise and psychological support, will decrease the weight gain associated with anti-psychotic treatment. Patients will be chosen for the trial according to NICE guidelines for referral to a weight management plan. In addition to the weekly Semaglutide (Wegovy®) injection, they will have regular access to dietary and exercise support as part of an overall healthy lifestyle plan which will form part of their overall care plan. They will also be provided with psychological support as a previous trial demonstrated that behavioural support was important, especially at the early stages of such therapy. The patients' progress will be monitored (weight, activity, diet) throughout the duration of the trial. The results will identify those patients who are most likely to benefit from this therapy and can be used to generate treatment guidelines."

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