Will the obesity caused by Haloperidol decrease if the medication is discontinued?
Disease description:
I am 28 years old this year. Due to suffering from schizophrenia, I have been taking antipsychotic medication—Haldol (Haloperidol)—for a long time. During the period of taking the medication, I noticed a rapid increase in my body weight, approximately 20 kilograms more than before, which has troubled me greatly. I am concerned whether my weight would naturally decrease and return to a normal level if I stop taking Haldol.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Zyprexa is a medication used to treat mental disorders, and its main active ingredient is olanzapine. Olanzapine may affect the body's metabolism, leading to increased appetite and weight gain. After discontinuation of Zyprexa, as the drug is metabolized and eliminated from the body, its side effects will gradually diminish or disappear. The specific effects vary from person to person, depending on factors such as individual baseline health status, lifestyle habits, and the rate at which the drug is metabolized in the body.
It is recommended to establish regular eating patterns, avoid overeating, maintain a balanced intake of various nutrients, and appropriately control calorie consumption. At the same time, increase physical activity, choose suitable aerobic and anaerobic exercises, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise to enhance calorie expenditure.
Consider consulting a nutritionist to develop an appropriate dietary plan and work with a mental health professional to learn healthy strategies for managing stress and emotions, avoiding using food as a source of comfort.
