... for 2 years and have gained 25 pounds. I have always been tiny, so this is very difficult for me. Additionally, I am getting married this summer and want to lose the weight. I eat pretty healthy and exercise, but can't get the weight off. Whenever I try to go off of it, I get very moody and depressed. Any suggestions?
Hi! I am looking for an alternative (natural or pharma) to Abilify. I have been on 5mg of Abilify?
Question posted by JLSMI on 25 Feb 2015
Last updated on 26 November 2017
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4 Answers
WildcatVet
26 Nov 2017
Depends on what condition you're taking it for. MDD, schizophenia, etc. Since you're moody, could it be Bipolar... in which case you don't want an antidepressant. Abilify is an anti-psychotic.
JLSMI
26 Nov 2017
Hi. I take a very small dose, to help my Effexor work better, which it definitely does. I have major, treatment resistant depression. I hate Abilify for the side effects, but it does work for my deep depression.
Chandleresque
26 Nov 2017
In a recent trial Wellbutrin augmentation was just as good as abilify. You will lose weight on wellbutrin. Very hard to lose weight with abilify as it messes with appetite and metabolism.
Abilify should be last resort in MDD.
JLSMI
26 Nov 2017
Thank you for your reply! Most unfortunately, Wellbutrin causes me to be angry.
Chandleresque
26 Nov 2017
If you are in n North America you could try deplin which is a prescription only medical food - methylfolate that is prescribed as an adjunct to an SSRI for MDD. No side effects as it is a vitamin (B9)and would be weight neutral.
Otherwise 1gram of epa fish oil per day has good evidence as an adjunct to an SSRI. Need to pay for quality though. I take Thorne’s super epa pro. It has the right ratio of epa to dha.
Zinc is also a supplement that can be used as an adjunct to an SSRI. 25mg per day as picolinate is what I use. Some good quality evidence it improves response and effectiveness of AD’s.
Not aware of any other natural option with good evidence.
Hope this helps.
JLSMI
26 Nov 2017
I am in North America, I will try the natural food medication that you recommended, Deplin. I do take fish oil’s and I will check the ratios. Thank you so very much for your suggestions, I really, truly appreciate them!
JLSMI
26 Nov 2017
Will try the zinc as well!
balbanese
25 Feb 2015
The definition of eating "healthy" has changed, and exercise that only burns calories can be fruitless. Check out how to have you natural metabolism burn fat, as opposed to just calories as that is a break even. Sugars in all forms including artificial, caffeine, alcohol, inadequate hydration, gluten, soy, dairy, yikes! So much info out there now about how to lose weight without all the gimmicks or dollars. As for the medication, your health history has everything to do with what may or may not work for you as opposed to what has or has not worked for others. Discuss options with your Dr, that is the best source for the alternatives you seek.
JLSMI
25 Feb 2015
Thank you for your comment and suggestions, I really appreciate it.
balbanese
26 Feb 2015
Any time!
MissTasi
25 Feb 2015
Unfortunately, most of these antidepressants cause weight gain. Depression alone can cause weight gain as many people turn to food or candy for comfort. You need to shed 20 lbs?. Hit the gym and work your butt off. You say you do exercise,. Change your routine add more cardio,add 15 minutes more You want to look good on your wedding day... Hit the pavement and walk, jog or skip. Get a rebounder and jump 15 minutes a day. There is no short cut. No Magic pill. 25 lbs. You are lucky that is all. I don't know how old you are but regardless of you need to drop the weight move move move. Also try doing a cleanse, have you ever considered going raw vegan for a while. Every friend I have that went raw food has dropped weight without even trying they look like ballerinas... You will find an added benefit,. The exercise will make you feel good, it stimulates the bodies natural dopamine.
Don't stop taking your medication though because u feel good. That should always be done with a Health care professional. The last thing you need before your wedding is to crash. Your husband to be obviously loves you just as you are , he isn't putting pressure on you to lose the weight before he marries you so be gentle with yourself. Maybe you lose ten,. Maybe more. Don't change medication if it's working
Just exercise. I am sure you can do it. Keep us posted on your progress
JLSMI
25 Feb 2015
Thank you for your comment and suggestions, I really appreciate it.
Related topics
abilify, depression, major depressive disorder, weight
Further information
- Abilify uses and safety info
- Abilify prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Abilify (detailed)
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