weight loss out of control.... | Arthritis Information

My weight climbed up after being on prednisone for many months and inactivity. Several weeks ago I started dieting. The weight has been coming off very rapidly (not complaining about that), but I have become sicker in the process. I'm very weak, have completely lost my appetite and actually have to force myself to get anything into my body. After eating my stomach is upset for hours and I'm more drained and dehydrated than before I ate. I don't know what is wrong with me, or what has happened. I just recently increased my mtx to 6 (from 4) and changed from celexa to cymbalta a month or so ago. I'd still like to lose another 10 lbs or so (so I'll have a buffer, in case I need it), but the way I'm feeling now, it doesn't quite feel worth it. I don't feel like doing anything and have spent most of my time on the couch the past few days. Anyone have this happen or have a clue what is going on?

Anyone have problems with cymbalta? I feel a bit off kilter, disoriented and not quite right and wonder if it's the cymbalta.

JuliahRA39267.4236805556Dear Juliah, I know exactly how you feel! I was convinced it wasn't good to take these RA drugs while restricting calories (too much, ya don't have to pig out either), maybe you have lost too much too fast? Try to moderate a little. Eat butt less, and taking pred is terrible for dieting. goood luck!! Lynda

Juliah,

I had the same exact symptoms from Celexa as well as grinding my teeth, so maybe it's the Cymbalta? Also, you didn't mention what type of diet you are on. Are you getting the right amount of protein and good carbs? I'm sure you probably are, but I had to ask!

Juliah, doesn't sound like it's because you're dieting unless you're dieting in all the wrong ways. Call the doctor that prescribed Cymbalta and talk with them. Sounds more like a medication problem than a diet problem. Like Kweenb asked, are you dieting with the right amount of protein, good carbs, and a high enough daily caloric intake? Keep us posted. Lindy

It could be the MTX. When I was taking MTX 4 tablets did nothing...it didn't start kicking in until about 6 tablets so this may be the first time you're experiencing the effects of MTX. For me, it worked well, but did cause some nausea / diarrhea, loss of appetite...and I lost about 10 lbs. I also experienced some dizziness and fatigue...none of these symptons were extreme for me but definitely noticeable. When I changed from MTX to Humira these symptoms slowly disappeared and I gained the weight back (...good for me).

Alan