Do Medications Like Lurasidone and Quetiapine Cause Weight Gain?

Drug side effects

Will taking Liyou and Beteshu cause weight gain? I have been taking them for a year and have gained weight from 75 kg to 93 kg (I have polycystic ovary syndrome and I'm not sure which factor is causing the weight gain).

Liu Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/17

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
Thank you for your inquiry and for your message.
1.
It is quite common for individuals suffering from depression or anxiety to use medications such as Lurasidone (Liouyu) and Bupropion (Beideshu) in clinical settings, as improvement in these conditions often leads to an enhancement in appetite, which in turn contributes to better overall health.
2.
From your letter, I see that you are concerned about weight issues.
I recommend discussing a potential adjustment to your health promotion plan with your physician.
3.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to endocrine imbalances and difficulties in weight management.
This should be evaluated based on the individual's clinical condition, so I suggest discussing this matter in person with your doctor.
4.
Lastly, I would like to remind you that our clinic is open for consultations from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
I encourage you to consider visiting the clinic for a personal assessment of your symptoms, so that we can collaboratively determine the best course of action for you.
Wishing you good mental and physical health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chang Geng-Jia
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2020/03/17

More Info

Lurasidone (often marketed as Latuda) and Quetiapine (known as Seroquel) are both atypical antipsychotic medications commonly prescribed for various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. One of the well-documented side effects of many atypical antipsychotics, including Quetiapine, is weight gain. Lurasidone is generally considered to have a lower risk of weight gain compared to other medications in the same class, but individual responses can vary significantly.

Weight gain associated with these medications can be attributed to several factors:
1. Metabolic Changes: Atypical antipsychotics can induce metabolic changes that lead to increased appetite and altered glucose metabolism. This can result in weight gain over time, especially if dietary habits remain unchanged.

2. Increased Appetite: Many patients report an increase in appetite when taking these medications. This can lead to overeating, contributing to weight gain.

3. Sedation: Both Lurasidone and Quetiapine can cause sedation or drowsiness, which may lead to decreased physical activity. A more sedentary lifestyle can further exacerbate weight gain.

4. Hormonal Effects: Some antipsychotics can affect hormone levels, including those related to hunger and metabolism, which can also contribute to weight gain.

In your case, you mentioned that you have experienced a significant increase in weight from 75 kg to 93 kg over the course of a year while taking these medications. This is a notable change and could be influenced by the medications, especially if you have also experienced changes in appetite or activity levels. Additionally, you mentioned having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is known to be associated with weight gain and insulin resistance. PCOS can complicate weight management, making it more challenging to determine the exact cause of weight changes.

If you are concerned about the weight gain, it is essential to discuss this with your prescribing physician. They can evaluate your overall health, consider the potential impact of your medications, and explore alternative treatment options if necessary. It may also be beneficial to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian who can help you develop a balanced diet and exercise plan tailored to your needs.

In summary, while both Lurasidone and Quetiapine can contribute to weight gain, individual responses vary. Factors such as metabolic changes, increased appetite, and lifestyle changes play significant roles. Given your history of PCOS and the substantial weight gain, it is crucial to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider to address these concerns and explore potential solutions.

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