Pizotifen - weight gain?

[SVR28]

I'm on Pizotifen and I already struggle with my weight. I have been on it for about a month and have put on about 5lbs, my appetite has certainly increased and I just don't appear to have the will power required at the moment.

There doesn't appear to be any other drug that will suit me with my other health problems and it does seem to be sorting out some of my Migraine related issues so appears to be working.

My question is, is anyone else on Pizotifen and how did you manage the weight gain?

Is it purely increased appetite and down to the person? Am I fighting a losing battle?

Thanks

[eliz12]

Hi, years ago I was on same drug and appetite increased. So much so that I stopped taking drug and went back to imigran. As this is no longer available from doc I take sumatriptan. You will find that taking drug every day to stop migraine does increase appetite. I now take Gotu Kola from Holland and Barrett . Along with Amitriptyline for neck pain,.and have found that migraines are so much less intense and not as often.

Hope this helps.

[SVR28 in reply to eliz12]

Thanks for your helpful response. It's still early days for me so it's useful to learn/hear from others in the similar boat. Best wishes

[mimzlianne]

Hi!

I had the exact same problem despite exercising fairly regularly.

Maybe you could ask your doctor to refer you to a dietitian (I was referred to one when they put me back on pizotifen)? I was quite dubious about going, but I was given some really useful information about migraine and weight friendly foods.

The tablets didn't work out for me in the end, but I hope they do for you!

[SVR28 in reply to mimzlianne]

Thank you. I'm seeing the doc again in November so I'll have a better idea of where I am on them and the weight gain. I'll ask about the dietitian as well, thanks.

I am improved but not better but I am still slowly increasing the dosage so maybe I haven't found the right level yet for Pizotifen.

[Charlotte_NMC Partner National Migraine Centre]

Yes, this is really common, and although a useful drug, for patients who struggle with their weight we try to avoid it. If you don't have any luck with your GP, do come to see one of the National Migraine Centre doctors - you can refer yourself online. migraineclinic.org.uk/

All the best, Rebecca.