Yes, taking antipsychotic medication can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you’re living with a severe mental illness, your risk may be higher. 

What’s the link between antipsychotics and diabetes? 

Some antipsychotic medicines can affect how your body manages blood sugar. This means you could be more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, especially if you already have other risk factors. These include being overweight, having high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes, or coming from certain ethnic backgrounds. 

How can you lower your risk? 

• Keep a healthy weight 
• Eat a balanced diet 
• Stay active 

If you’re worried about diabetes while taking antipsychotics, talk to your doctor. Regular health checks can help spot any changes early. 

Where to get support 

If you have questions about your medication or mental health, visit our medication page. For more on physical health and mental illness, see our antipsychotics and physical health advice. 

If you’re concerned about your risk of diabetes, don’t wait. Speak to your GP and explore our resources for support and advice.