Weight gain is a common side effect of many antipsychotic drugs. Fortunately, diet and exercise, in combination with nutritional counseling, are quite effective against this type of weight gain. If you are taking an antipsychotic medication, get the go-ahead from your doctor before making changes in your diet and exercise routine, and never stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor first.
Antipsychotic Medications
Antipsychotic drugs are used to treat diseases like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The most commonly prescribed antipsychotics are known as second-generation or atypical antipsychotics that include clozapine, risperidone and onlanzamine. First-generation antipsychotics are generally considered less effective, and include chlorpromazine and thioridazine. The side effects of antipsychotic medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, vision changes, tremors and weight gain. Most of these side effects can be managed or will fade over time, but you should make your doctor aware of any undesirable effects.
Antipsychotics and Weight Gain
Some antipsychotic medications, especially atypical antipsychotics, can cause extreme weight gain and may even affect the metabolism or lead to diabetes and cholesterol problems. This may be due to the way these medications interfere with an enzyme that regulates appetite. If you are taking an antipsychotic, your doctor should monitor your weight, lipids and glucose levels regularly. A 2009 study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" shows that children on antipsychotics may be at particular risk, with study subjects gaining eight to 15 percent of their body weight in only 12 weeks. Metabolic effects can vary between medications, so if weight gain is a concern, ask your doctor about your options.
Losing Weight on Antipsychotics
A 2003 study published in "Psychiatric Services" followed 31 patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder for a 12-week weight control program including diet modification and exercise. Study subjects lost an average of 6 lbs. a year. In 2009, researchers from the University of California at Los Angeles developed and studied a weight control program for patients on antipsychotic medications, including nutritional counseling, individual case management and 30 minutes of exercise per day. Their results mirrored those of the 2003 study, with exercise and diet program participants losing an average of 6.6 lbs. in a year.
Where to Start
If you are taking an antipsychotic medication and have experienced serious weight gain, tell your doctor about your concerns. He can help you develop a healthy approach to diet and exercise that may halt or reverse the gain. Successful weight-loss programs for patients on such medications have included a diet of nutrient-rich fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, with minimal processed foods, and 30 to 60 minutes a day of moderate exercise. Regular check-ins with a nutritionist or regular counselor can help you stick to your plan and monitor your overall health during the process.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health; Mental Health Medications; 2011
- National Institute of Mental Health; Not All Antipsychotics Created Equal; 2008
- National Institute of Mental Health; Weight Gain From Antipsychotics Traced; 2007
- "The New York Times"; Weight Gain Associated With Antipsychotic Drugs; Duff Wilson; 2009
- "Psychiatric Services"; A Program for Managing Weight Gain Associated With Atypical Antipsychotics; Betty Vreeland et al.; 2003
- Medscape Medical News: Diet, Exercise Control Antipsychotic-Induced Weight Gain; Norra MacReady; 2009
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