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Increased appetite on Zyprexa


*When ever I post about medication, this is neither an endorsement or meant to influence others choices about medication. Each person is different and medication results and side effects are often different for each person.

In past entries I have covered dietary changes to help curb weight gain, since switching to Zyprexa I have come up with some more tips to help. Since the weight gain associate with medicine is something that can cause people to stop using medications I thought I would cover this important topic again to stress how some lifestyle changes can help in keeping the weight gain to a minimum.

Two months ago my Pdoc switched me from Seroquel to Zyprexa, besides working better to help silence my mind and getting rid of my paranoia I also noticed an appetite increase. This has led to a new approach in weight management and meal planning. If I didn't employ the following tricks and tips I honestly believe that I would see the dreaded weight gain that is associated with Zyprexa

1. I now schedule all meals and snacks. I make sure that each meal offers me enough calories and nutritional value to keep me healthy. I do not eat outside of these scheduled meals and snacks no matter how hungry I am. Will power is key here. The increase in appetite took me surprise.

2. When hunger hits I up the distractions. This can mean doing house work or simply reading. I try to distract myself from the hunger. I know I am receiving enough nutrients in my daily meals that pushing off this hunger isn't going to harm me physically.

3. I watch my portions very closely. I make sure that every thing I eat is exactly a single serving. If I am still hungry during a meal and I do go for seconds I make sure that it only the low calories vegetables. I never go for thirds no matter how hungry. If I didn't do this I would easily over eat and after even a full meal I am still hungry.

4. For snacks I have been including more low calories choices such as sugar free Jello (10 calories) or raw fruits and vegetables. I have been trying to keep my snacks to under a 75 calories per snack.

5. I replaced my sugar that is added to my morning coffee and evening tea with a no calories substitute sweetener . Ask your health care professional which substitute is right for you.

6. All sugary drinks are replaced with water. I really don't think people understand how soda can have many different negative impacts on health and weight.

7. I have been making sure that I am physically active throughout the day. Besides daily exercise I have added hand scrubbing my floors to my my daily cleaning list. This allows me to burn an extra 100 or calories a day.

8, If you notice unhealthy cravings for carbs and sweets get them out of your house. Some fruits are a great substitute for sweet cravings. Go with what works for you.

9. Keep a food log. Many people are unaware of their actual calorie intake, by keeping a log you will have an accurate picture of just how much you are consuming.


I'm not going to lie, its rough dealing with the appetite increase that Zyprexa has caused. So far I have managed to maintain my weight but its been hard work and has taken tons of will power to do so. Over time it gets a little easier to manage the constant hunger and cravings. The key is sticking to a plan that works best for you.  

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