Severe Nondiabetic Hypoglycemia After Risperidone Initiation in an Adult With Schizophrenia: A Case Report and Systematic Review
Abstract
Hypoglycemia is a rare but potentially serious adverse effect of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs). Most studies have focused on SGA-induced hyperglycemia and metabolic syndrome, while hypoglycemia in non-diabetic adults remains underreported. We describe a case of severe hypoglycemia following risperidone initiation, demonstrating diagnostic challenges and safety concerns. A 41-year-old woman with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, Asperger's syndrome, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder was admitted for worsening commanding auditory hallucinations and persecutory delusions. Risperidone was started at 2 mg nightly and increased to 3 mg after four days. The patient developed recurrent episodes of severe hypoglycemia (random blood glucose levels 35-50 mg/dL; hypoglycemia defined as
Fields of Study & Subjects
Schizophrenia research and treatment
Diabetes Management and Research
Neurological and metabolic disorders
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cureus
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 18
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- e106442–e106442
- Publication date
- 4 April 2026
- Language
- EN