Loss of appetite can occur for many reasons, including sickness and depression. When this happens, it is often difficult to get the patient to eat, making them deficient in basic nutrients they need to survive. Often, the solution is to prescribe one of several appetite-inducing medications as part of the patient's treatment.
Mirtazapine
Mirtazapine, also known as Remeron, is used to treat severe issues with depression. Researchers believe this drug helps depression by increasing serotonin and adrenaline in the brain which helps chemicals transmit between nerve cells in the brain. This drug also has been effective at relieving the loss of appetite associated with depression. Side effects of can include flu symptoms, sores or patches on the skin or mouth, faintness, dizziness, weakness, constipation, dry mouth and thirst.
Cyproheptadine
Cyproheptadine is mainly used as an antihistamine to help relieve cold and allergy symptoms. It is also used to treat skin issues such as poison ivy, poison oak and insect bites. This drug has been found to also be effective to treat loss of appetite in children and adults who suffer from cystic fibrosis. As with many antihistamines, cyproheptadine can cause drowsiness and a thickening of lung secretions. Less common side effects can include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea. Serious side effects, including depression, photosensivity, hemolytic anemia and bronchospasms, should be examined by a doctor.
Megestrol
Megestol was introduced in the 1970s for treatment in some breast and endometrial cancers. In the 1990s, this drug was also approved to help with treatment of eating disorders and loss of appetite associated with AIDS. It is recommended for weight loss only after all other treatable causes of weight loss are addressed and treated. This drug can be harsh on a patient's system: Side effects include abdominal and chest pain, heart palpitations, convulsions, depression, cough and lung disorders, sweating and herpes. Patients who see any of these side effects should see a doctor immediately.
Dronabinol
Dronabinol is a synthetic form of THC, the chemical compound found in marijuana. Marijuana has been used as an appetite stimulant for centuries. Usually prescribed for cancer and AIDS patients, this drug should be prescribed as a last effort after all other options for controlling weight loss and appetite have failed: it can be habit forming. Dronabinol can have some severe side effects, including seizures, paranoia, fainting and an increased heart rate. Patients who have any of these side effects should contact their doctor immediately. Less serious side effects include mood changes, feeling "high," anxiety, nausea and vomiting, and insomnia.
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