What should I do if I gained weight after taking risperidone?

Weight gain associated with risperidone use can be managed by adjusting diet, maintaining regular exercise, monitoring weight regularly, consulting doctors to modify treatment plans, and improving lifestyle management. This side effect is often related to the drug's impact on metabolism and appetite changes. If there is rapid weight gain in a short period or accompanying abnormalities in blood glucose or lipid levels, prompt medical attention is advised.

1. Adjust diet structure: Reduce intake of high-sugar, high-fat, and oily foods. Increase consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality protein. Control total calorie intake, avoid binge eating, aim for 70–80% fullness at each meal, and minimize snacking and sugary beverages.

2. Maintain regular physical activity: Engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming, combined with 2–3 strength training sessions weekly to enhance calorie expenditure and improve metabolism. Exercise intensity should increase gradually to prevent injury.

3. Monitor weight regularly: Weigh yourself weekly at the same time using the same scale to track trends. If weight increases by more than 2 kg (about 4.4 lbs) per month, take timely action to adjust interventions and prevent continuous weight gain.

4. Consult your doctor to adjust treatment: Do not stop or reduce medication on your own. Inform your doctor about any weight changes. The doctor may adjust the dosage or switch medications based on your condition and evaluate whether metabolic indicators (e.g., blood sugar, lipids) are abnormal.

5. Optimize lifestyle management: Ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late, as poor sleep can disrupt metabolic function and appetite-regulating hormones. Maintain emotional stability and reduce stress-related overeating. Establish consistent daily routines.

Diet should be light and easy to digest. Always warm up before exercising and stretch afterward. Follow the principle of gradual progression and avoid pursuing rapid weight loss盲目ly. Develop a personalized plan that balances effective treatment with healthy weight management.