February 21, 2008
Other Medications
Question from India:
I am 48 years old and weigh 100 kg (222 pounds). For my type 2 diabetes, I take metformin and ayurvedic therapy. I need psychiatric medicine due to overflow of unwanted thoughts regarding some improper oppressive things with me. But, most anti-psychotic medicines either lead to weight gain (obesity) or higher blood sugars. Do you know of any anti-psychotic drugs that would not lead to weight gain or increased blood sugars? I have been on flupentixol dihydrochloride.
Answer:
In general, you are correct that a good number of anti-depressant medications cause increased weight gain. At some point, however, you need to weigh the relative importance of the treatment versus the side effects. I would check with your psychiatrist as to which of the drugs would be most helpful for your condition and you can see how it works. Knowing a drug can increase appetite can sometimes allow you to compensate. Your psychiatrist may best know which drug to use and answer your questions along these lines.
JTL
