Medication side effects

Railroad Momma · 07-01-2009, 21:57

I was totally elated when my MH doctor prescribed my newest medication. I had heard so many wonderful things about how it improved bi-polar depression. I had tried to get previous doctors to prescribe it with no luck. Well, be careful what you wish for. Even though my doctor told me that one of the side effects to this new medication was weight gain, I didn't care. I have lived with bi-polar depression for most of my life and have had no positive effects with the numerous meds I have been prescribed in the past. Well, I have gained at least ten pounds in roughly 2 months and am thinking that maybe I should not have gotten on this particular med. It has helped with the depression, but now I'm becoming depressed due to the weight gain. It also has been the culprit for my increased cholesterol numbers. So, I either remain depressed or live with the side effects of a drug I literally prayed for. I guess I'll have to live with the weight issue and hope I can resolve this in the future.

shayden · 02-09-2010, 17:42

momma,

my heart goes out to you as there simply has to be a better way for them to treat your bi-polar without the side effects - especially those that make you depressed.

the VA had me on mortazapine to help me sleep - common side effect - weight gain. i gained nearly 40 pounds and weighed more than i ever had before... needless to say, it wasnt worth it because i didnt like who i saw when i looked in the mirror... i told them i couldnt handle the weight gain and to find something else...

it is so difficult though - finding the right medicine is vital; and i hate that the one that actually helps creates another problem. i would definitely talk to your doctor and look inside yourself as to what hurts/helps more.

also - research if there is a comprable medicine out there...and possibly reach out to one of the docs listed on the site to see if they have any recommendations...

wishing you the best in this!

Railroad Momma · 02-09-2010, 18:00

Thanks so much for your caring words. Not all of my weight gain is due to this medication (Abilify). I unfortunately hit menopause and with that added weight. Getting older really sucks! I also have become a lot less physical since the menopause set in. I really need to go talk to my gyn doctor about this weight gain. Perhaps some hormone replacement might come in handy. Who knows, I'd still rather be emotionally happy with the added weight than miserable with my mental health. Take care and good luck with your sleep issues.