Posted by Racer on February 27, 2008, at 11:44:58
In reply to Re: Any meds to counteract zyprexa weight gain? » lif101part2, posted by 4WD on February 26, 2008, at 17:53:16
Unfortunately, appetite has little to do with the weight gain from many of these drugs. While Provigil can be a very helpful medication for many people, it's unlikely to have much effect on weight gain from other medications.
Both Topomax and Glucophage have had some success in countering the weight gain from various other medications, including Zyprexa. Both come with their own set of adverse effects, so it's hard to say which is better. I guess I'd suggest trying both to see which is more effective for you, and which adverse effects are more troublesome for you. If neither is effective and tolerable, it might be worth replacing Zyprexa with a less obesogenic alternative. What option might be best for you depends in large degree on what you're taking Zyprexa for.
Topomax is known to cause some cognitive dulling -- in fact, some people call it "Dopomax." I've heard two suggestions for countering this effect: a slow titration from a low starting dose; and bicarbonate. Another effect reported on Babble was hair loss, although I'm not sure how common that is. I have to admit, I can't remember other effects reported, because my brain has recently turned to swiss cheese. As far as the weight effects, it seems pretty effective.
Glucophage is a diabetes medication, and can cause some other adverse effects. I'm less familiar with it, so I won't comment.
Good luck, whatever you decide.
poster:Racer
thread:814004
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/neuro/20080204/msgs/814959.html