I’m on 60 mg of Cymbalta and 2 mg of Abilify. I would love to get off Abilify and haven’t been able to in the past. It’s causing weight gain. Are there other add on meds I could try? Ideas? It’s used to boost my mood. Thanks!
Cymbalta and Abilify - other options?
Question posted by mmmmmm19 on 13 April 2021
Last updated on 14 April 2021
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Answers
WildcatVet
14 April 2021
Hi, mmmmmm!
Unfortunately for us many, if not most, psychotropic medications have the potential to cause weight gain by altering the metabolism in some people. But just because you gained weight on Abilify it doesn't necessarily mean you will on another medication because everyone responds differently to these drugs.
If you need a mood booster I would suggest trying Rexulti which, like Abilify, is more energizing than most antipsychotics.
Talk it over with your doctor and let them know that you're concerned about the weight gain... get their professional advice.
Best regards and good luck to you. Weight gain is depressing enough all by itself.
mmmmmm19
14 April 2021
Thanks, Wildcat! I’ve only seen the commercials for Rexuti. I’ll do some research. The only other med I was curious about is Lamictal at a super low dose. Do you know anything about it? Seems like weight neutral. Thanks!
WildcatVet
14 April 2021
Lamictal (lamotrigine) is actually an anticonvulsant but it is also used for mood disorders and is thought to be especially good for depression and anxiety to a degree.
I'm Bipolar ll with severe depressive episodes and I've been taking lamotrigine for about 2 years now. I'm pleased with how much it's helped me.
You have to titrate your dose usually starting at about 25mg and raising it as needed to what is the therapeutic level for you and that varies from person to person.
It's certainly worth discussing with your doctor... and it's much less apt to cause weight gain.
mmmmmm19
14 April 2021
Thank you! Yes, I’m curious. I’m seeing my shrink in 2 weeks and just want to have some general info to talk w her about. Lamictal could be promising, def going to inquire. I would prob need 25 mg, but who knows? I’m not gaining weight per say on abilify, I just can’t lose, despite working out 6 days a week! Did you have any issues starting up?
WildcatVet
14 April 2021
Issues with the Lamictal? None at all. :)
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abilify, cymbalta, weight loss (obesity/overweight), weight
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