Hyponatremia and neuroleptic-induced obesity in rats.

The weight gain and hyperphagia induced by chronic administration of sulpiride in female rats were not prevented by the concomitant administration of an extra source of sodium. In addition, serum sodium levels were not affected, but potassium levels were significantly reduced by sulpiride administered for 1 week. These results suggest that sulpiride-induced obesity in rats is not related to sodium imbalance. The mechanism for the decrease in serum potassium levels and its relation with sulpiride-induced weight gain warrant further investigation.