The Prevalence of Constipation and Its Risk Factors in Patients with Schizophrenia

Objective: Constipation is a common symptom in schizophrenia population. Patients treated with antipsychotic drugs are more likely to have constipation. In this study, we intended to identify possible associations and risk factors between schizophrenia patients and constipation. Methods: Patients with schizophrenia (n = 240) were recruited. In this cross-sectional study, we collected information of their socio-demographic and clinical details. Their psychotic symptoms were evaluated using clinical interview with positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS). Results: In this study, the prevalence of constipation was 59.8%. Odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of PANSS average score, 1.018 (1.003–1.034), p < 0.05); OR (95% CI) of using second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) solely, 3.475 (1.201–10.056), p < 0.05); and OR (95% CI) of using anticholinergic drugs, 1.853 (1.024–3.353), p < 0.05) were significantly associated with constipation. Conclusion: The prevalence of constipation is extremely high in this sample. In those patients who had severe psychotic symptoms, prescription of SGAs or anticholinergic agents, the focus should be on early detection, monitoring the constipation side effect, and early intervention.