Q: I understand many psychotropic drugs can cause diabetes. Are than anything one can do do stop this?
Janet,
The main thing is to exercise, watch your weight, and reduce the amount of sugar you have in your diet.
Yes, there have been lawsuits against the makers of Zyprexa because in its current formulation it causes obesity which leads to diabetes.
You should get your sugar, liver, kidney, hormones, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, C-reactive protein and all that other good stuff tested regularly via blood work.
I go to my primary care doctor every three months because I'm at elevated risk for heart disease.
So if you're concerned, schedule an appointment with the doctor, and ask her how often you need to be tested. Explain the drugs you are on, and if you're on Zyprexa, chances are she'll know its side effects, but anyway, do tell her your specific concerns, she may not know this risk.
Better to be safe than sorry. Regular monitoring is critical.
Best,
Chris
I really feel for you on this one. Zyprexa is the only antipsychotic that works for me. Yes, it has led to my obesity, high cholesterol, thyroid problems, high blood pressure, etc. It not only makes me want to eat constantly, but too often what time I am not eating I am sleeping. I have tried all the other atypicals and they were ineffective. So I have to take Zyprexa or end up having a psychotic break and a trip back to the hospital.
I have implored God, I have wept, I have been noncompliant many times, I have bought diet pills over the internet w/o a prescription (to no avail.) I have sought the wisdom of doctors and others because I hated taking Zyprexa. But to date, nothing else has been effective against depression and psychosis.
Now, I am trying to come to terms with my illness and a need for medication that must transcend whatever the side effects. It is not easy. It will probably never be easy. It may eventually lead to diabetes; in fact, I expect it to. There is nothing I can do to stop it. I have tried exercise, diet, and other measures, but I cannot stop the weight gain because of this intense drive to eat. I have let it practically destroy my life at times. Now I am trying to live in the here-and-now and not worry too much about it.
By the way, I think Abilify and Geodon are not as likely to cause diabetes because they cause little or no weight gain.
Carolyn
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
