hi sir/mam, i can understand your concern.coming to alprazolam first,
1)increased appetite in 30-35%
2)decreased appetite in 20%
3)weight change in about 20-30%
4)most important point to be noted is that these above mentioned effects are seen when about 10mg of alprazolam is taken in a day.
what we infer from the above data is that,if a person is already overweight or obese,taking alprazolam may likely increase his/her weight.the chance of a normal or lean individual becoming obese with this drug is minimal though cant be ruled out.but very long duration of usage is to be avoided due to addictive potential.
now lets discuss about escitalopram
1)weight gain in about 1% of individuals.
2)when compared to other anti depressant drugs,escitalopram has got the least potential of weight gain.
so,finally i would like to say that you can take both the medicines but just be cautious of the duration.avoid long term usage.also for those who come to my clinic with similar symptoms,i would suggest the following that help for better sleep and also help in weight reduction :
1)for optimal maintenance of weight,daily 45min of physical exercise is recommended.
2)avoidance of junk food and high calorie diet,added sugar containing beverages,carbon containing beverages.
3)main supplementation must be from fresh fruits and vegetables.
4)a glass of warm milk before bed,having dinner atleast 2hr before sleep help early onset of sleep.
5)all the electronic gadgets like television,laptop,cell phone,music are to be switched off while going to bed.you can read a good and pleasant novel that helps you to go into deep sleep.
6)please avoid thriller,horror movies and novels at night.
7)mind relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation would surely help you in getting a good sleep even without any medication.
hope my answer clarifies your doubts.any further queries,please let me know.its my pleasure to guide you.thank you.take care.bye.