Posted by Racer on August 2, 2004, at 11:38:55
In reply to weight loss after Effexor-- Glucophage?, posted by toodlebug on August 2, 2004, at 10:41:20
Glucophage is really only appropriate if you're experiencing problems with glucose regulation. The reason people are taking it for weight gain related to Zyprexa is pretty straightforward: Zyprexa has been shown to interfere with normal endocrine function, and cause metabolic syndrome X. Metabolic syndrome X is characterized by insulin resistance, and elevated blood sugar levels. Glucophage is one of the medications that is used to treat Type II diabetes, and it does come along with some unpleasant effects. It's not the first line solution for weight gain in any situation, although it is one the first line for diabetes and metabolic syndrome X.
I guess I was lucky: when I stopped taking Effexor, the first 25 pounds I'd gained on it came off without any changes whatsoever on my part. (Admittedly, I worked in a fairly physical position.) It didn't take that long to lose that much, either. At the time, I wasn't even aware that I was losing the weight -- stepping on the scale was so traumatic, I didn't do it if I could help it, so when I finally did and saw all that weight gone it was a nice surprise.
If you really believe that the Effexor affected your endocrine system, talk to your doctor about checking your blood sugar at home and keep a journal for a couple of weeks with the results. This journal will include what you eat and when, and your blood sugar before and about an hour after each meal. It may also include random readings throughout the day -- especially when you first wake up in the morning. That journal, and possibly a test like the A1C, will show if there's a problem like MSX. If there is, then glucophage might help. Otherwise, your safest and healthiest bet is to discuss alternate weight loss strategies with your doctor.
Best luck.
poster:Racer
thread:373150
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040730/msgs/373160.html