Sexual dysfunction and other prolactin-related side effects of antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: Protocol for a systematic review with single-arm, pairwise, and network meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and non-randomized studies

PMCID: PMC12138325

PMID: 40474917

DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.154742.1

Journal: F1000Research

Publication Date: 2025-6-19

Authors: Schneider-Thoma J, Dong S, Kim DD, Efthimiou O, Siafis S, et al.

Key Points

• Sexual dysfunctions are prevalent in schizophrenia patients, potentially impacting treatment adherence and quality of life
• The study will comprehensively analyze sexual side effects across multiple domains and antipsychotic medications
• Integrating randomized and non-randomized evidence represents an innovative approach to understanding medication-related sexual adverse events

Summary

This systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol addresses a critical gap in understanding sexual side effects associated with antipsychotic medications in schizophrenia treatment. Recognizing that sexual dysfunctions affect 30-80% of patients, the study aims to comprehensively evaluate the sexual adverse event profiles across different second-generation antipsychotics by integrating evidence from both randomized controlled trials and non-randomized studies.

The proposed methodology is methodologically robust, utilizing the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I to assess study quality, and employing single-arm meta-analysis and network meta-analysis techniques. By examining sexual adverse events across desire, arousal, and orgasm phases, as well as considering gender-specific outcomes and breast/menstrual complications, the research seeks to provide nuanced insights that can guide clinicians in medication selection.