Concerns About Antipsychotic Withdrawal Symptoms
Greetings, I began taking Vraylar in February and subsequently transitioned to Saphris for mood stabilization associated with my pseudo seizures. To clarify, I do not have bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, so I discontinued the medication about 2.5 to 3 months ago, which would be early April. I apologize if this is oversharing, but I feel a bit lost in seeking answers. Has anyone else experienced prolonged periods of unwelcome sexual arousal without any apparent trigger? It's uncomfortable, and nothing seems to alleviate it. Additionally, I've been dieting and working out yet struggle to shed any weight. Has anyone faced similar challenges with weight management after stopping antipsychotic medications?
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 8:40:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s understandable to feel lost when encountering challenging symptoms after changing medications. Let’s address your concerns regarding withdrawal symptoms and how they relate to your current experiences.
Main Points:
- Unwelcome sexual arousal might be related to the changes in medication, but can also be due to various factors.
- Weight management can be affected by multiple aspects, especially after discontinuing antipsychotic medications.
Explanation:
When discontinuing antipsychotics like Vraylar and Saphris, some people may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include changes in libido or sexual arousal. This could be due to the brain adjusting to the absence of the medication, as antipsychotics can alter brain chemistry related to mood and sexual function.
Regarding weight management, antipsychotic medications often cause metabolic changes, which can persist even after stopping them. Factors like diet, exercise, hormonal balance, and individual metabolism also play a significant role in weight loss.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal for at least a few weeks where you can track episodes of unwelcome arousal and other symptoms. Note any triggers or different factors that may influence these experiences.
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Focus on Healthy Habits:
- Continue your healthy diet and regular exercise. Ensure you engage in both cardiovascular and strength-training exercises, as both aid in weight management.
- Consider consulting a nutritionist who can help you create a personalized eating plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.
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Stress Management: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate both sexual arousal and weight management challenges. Explore stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation.
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Hydration and Sleep: Both hydration and adequate sleep are crucial for overall well-being and can positively influence your metabolism and mood. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
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Seek Support: If these symptoms persist and significantly impact your quality of life, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider or a mental health specialist for further evaluation and support. They can guide you on potential therapies or adjustments that could help manage these symptoms.
Please take care, and know that you are not alone in this experience. If you need further information or have additional questions, feel free to ask.
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