I have been suffering from bipolar mood disorder for 15 years and currently take Divaa OD 1g and Oliza 5mg. Because of continuous weight gain, I want to stop taking Oliza and replace Divaa OD; what alternative medicines can you suggest?
Managing weight gain from Oliza (olanzapine) is a common concern. However, please do not stop your medications abruptly, as this can trigger a severe relapse of bipolar symptoms. For Oliza, weight-friendly atypical antipsychotic alternatives include Aripiprazole or Lurasidone, which have a much lower risk of weight gain. To replace Divaa OD (divalproex), weight-neutral mood stabilizers like Lamotrigine are commonly prescribed. Please consult your psychiatrist to discuss these options. Only they can safely taper down your current medications and cross-titrate you to these alternatives based on your complete medical profile.