weight gain

[GorillaMumma]

I know it’s not the biggest issue but I’m finding myself piling weight on since taking olanzapine. I haven’t made any changes to my diet and am exercising 3 times a week yet still the weight on the scales are creeping upwards. I feel uncomfortable in my body and am dreading wearing a swim costume this summer. I know my mental health is the most important thing so maybe I just need to take the weight gain on the chin but wanted to reach out to find how others may have overcome this.

With thanks

[Ramlah_at_APP Volunteer]

Hi GorillaMumma,

I know exactly how you feel ! I was on olanzapine for year and gained so much weight . Which made me feel insecure which then effected my mental health and well being. My best advice to you is to speak to your doctor who prescribed the medication and ask for an alternative. Just be honest with them and explain how the weight gain is effecting you . I mean the last thing they would want is for your well being to deteriorate .

Take care

Ramlah xx

[AinslW]

I had this same issue even with no changes to my diet and exercise. The weight fell off when I decreased the dosage and switched to Latuda. The metabolic effects of olanzapine really are extreme, I understand. I think it's reasonable to ask for a change of medication if it's affecting your psychological well-being. But also recognize that it may end up really being the best thing for you and you may need to deal with the side effects if it keeps you the most mentally stable. Best to you...Ainsley

[YellowBanana09]

I feel for you GorillaMumma, I’ve had exactly the same every time I’ve been on olanzapine (just finished tapering and off it now). From what I understand olanzapine is a more sedating anti-psychotic and these are the types that make you prone to gaining weight. Perhaps your dr can advise of another if appropriate?

It’s really hard - being well is the main objective but it’s horrible gaining weight when you have already had a confidence knock. If you decide to stay on it, perhaps can you treat yourself to some new clothes or haircut to give you a boost ?

Take care

Xx

[Cheryl-2021 Volunteer]

Hi GorillaMumma

I was told I had to take Olanzapine for just under a year when I planned my second pregnancy. I was aware of the weight gain side effects and didn't want to put on weight. I spoke to my consultant, and they said my mental health should come first, and if I put on weight, I can address this when I'm out of the risk zone. I totally understand the concerns and upset about weight gain, but knowing the Olanzapine would keep me well, I took on the weight gain. I do agree with the comments from others about discussing with your consultant Psychiatrist about your concerns and how you're feeling.

Also, remember you are a strong, beautiful woman no matter what size you are. Everyone comes in different shapes and sizes, and I take great inspiration from the artist Lizzo and her views on body image 💜

[LucyG18]

Hi GorillaMumma,

I can completely relate, I have been on Olanzapine since 2019 and wondered many times about changing to another medication or coming off but I want to stay well. I find as well as gaining weight my body shape has changed with most of the weight on my tummy which is far from flat. I joined a weightlifting gym which really helped and also made me view my body differently and gave me the objective of being strong rather than slim. Olanzapine has solved my issues with insomnia which cause me to be ill so I have weighed it up and decided to stay on a very low dose after hearing the other options. Your doctor should be able to take you through what those are. Take care xx

[Kotenok_Lelu]

Hello.I also put on weight on olanzapine. Albeit small. But it's still concerned me. So I started to count calories. I used FatSecret application. I was able to lose 7 kilograms in the span of 6-7 months. All this time I was taking 10 mg of olanzapine. It's possible to lose weight on it. But it's difficult. It's very slow. And you should really watch to keep your calories in check. Sometimes I couldn't keep my diet, then my weight will go up. But overall I lost 7 kilograms.

I wish you good health