Overwhelming Fatigue After Starting New Medication
Hello, I’m an 18-year-old female, standing at 5'6" and dealing with being overweight, along with daily use of Walmart brand Claritin for my allergies. Recently, I was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and my psychiatrist prescribed me Zyprexa four days ago. This transition came after a two-week period on Caplyta, which I was instructed to stop taking immediately to begin Zyprexa on the same day. Since I started Zyprexa on Monday, I cannot stress enough how intense my fatigue has become. I just awoke a short time ago after sleeping for over 20 hours straight, and even now, I can hardly keep my eyes open long enough to type this out. For almost four consecutive days, I’ve essentially been in a continuous sleep cycle, managing perhaps a few hours of functionality each day before I drift back into unconsciousness. My excessive sleeping is concerning my family, and it's severely affecting my ability to keep up with my school assignments. I find myself at a loss as to what steps to take next. The only side effect that my doctor had alerted me about was the potential for weight gain (though I’ve surprisingly lost some weight). I did some research and found that drowsiness is a known side effect of this medication, but what I am experiencing feels like much more than mere drowsiness. A family member suggested that I simply stop taking it, but it's not as straightforward as that. Finding the right medication for my mental health has been a struggle; I've tried around six different medications in the past that either had no effect or worsened my situation. If there’s a chance that Zyprexa may be effective for me, I am hesitant to discontinue it, yet I also recognize that this level of fatigue is not manageable. I’m uncertain whether the fatigue is indeed caused by Zyprexa, but it is the only significant change I’ve made recently, which is why I’m emphasizing it here.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 5:30:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing significant fatigue after starting Zyprexa, which can indeed be a side effect of this medication. You’re right to be cautious about stopping a new medication, especially one that could potentially support your mental health.
Explanation: Zyprexa (olanzapine) is an atypical antipsychotic that can cause sedation and drowsiness as common side effects. Since you have transitioned from Caplyta to Zyprexa, your body may be adjusting to the change. Additionally, significant fatigue like you've described—where you are sleeping excessively—is not typical and warrants attention.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your sleep patterns, energy levels, and overall mood. Note any other side effects you observe. This information will help healthcare providers assess your situation more effectively.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are drinking enough water and eating balanced meals. Dehydration or poor nutrition can contribute to fatigue. Aim for at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water a day and include fruits, vegetables, and proteins in your diet.
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Gradual Activity Increase: If you can, try to introduce some light physical activity or stretching into your day, as this may help improve your energy levels without overwhelming you.
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Discuss with Your Psychiatrist: Reach out to your psychiatrist as soon as possible. Explain the intensity of your fatigue and how it is affecting your daily life. They may suggest adjusting the dosage of Zyprexa, switching to a different medication, or implementing strategies to manage the sedation you’re experiencing.
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Safety First: If your fatigue becomes severe enough that you feel unable to engage in essential activities (like attending school), ensure you have support in place, such as a caregiver or trusted family member who can help you monitor your situation.
Remember, it's crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your experiences, as this will allow them to make the best recommendations for your mental health and overall well-being. You are not alone in this, and it’s important to seek support when needed.
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