Hi, I am on risperdal consta, and I have major weight gain because of it. Is there a way to stop the gain. TKS?

This is a common problem with atypical antipsychotics, though Risperdal is not considered the worst offender. Generally it is through a combination of increased hunger and food consumption, and the effect of these drugs on metabolism. There are however cases, where individuals with very low caloric intake gain substantial amounts of weight, sometimes very rapidly. This is not the usual case, but it does happen.

There's research done that suggests the use of an old anti-diabetic drug called metformin may halt or reverse weight gain related to atypical antipsychotics. There are several studies that have been done showing it to be quite effective when combined with Zyprexa - the worst of the AAPs causing weight gain. You might discuss that with your doctor. Metformin is a dirt cheap, staple medication with an exemplary safety and side effect profile. It alters uptake of sugar in the digestive tract and inhibits the body's production of glucose from other sources. It's certainly worth a try.

Another alternative is Zyprexa Zydis. While I was initially skeptical of this medication, as it's a form of Zyprexa which causes the worst gain, the developers came up with the idea of administering it under the tongue rather than by a swallowed pill. As I said, I was initially skeptical, but the studies that have been done show much improved weight side effects, and rapid loss of weight gained in patients who were previously on Zyprexa. However, it's a new and expensive dosage form, and it may not be an appropriate drug at all.

Get in touch with your doctor, bring these ideas up and ask him to look into them. Weight gain related to AAP usage is a known and significant concern with these drugs, and it should be addressed.

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