Weight gain with atypical antipsychotic drugs in bipolar disorder.

Diana is a 21-year-old student who lives with her parents. She had been enrolled in college but has taken a temporary leave of absence due to the instability of her bipolar disorder. Since being diagnosed at age 18, Diana's treatment team has been unable to find a medication regimen that would maintain her stability. She has had several breakthrough manic episodes that resulted in significant risky and inappropriate behaviors on campus. The cognitive, motivational, and energy limitations of depression left her unable to keep up with school requirements. Dr. Spiker, her regular psychiatrist, prescribed olanzapine Zyprexa 5 mg. Both Diana and Dr. Spiker are concerned about potential weight gain but consider this intervention necessary, as other medication trials have been unsuccessful.