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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Should Depression, Mental Illness And Loss Of Appetite Be Treated?

Hello, my brother has a history of mental illness and depression; he s currently refusing to eat and has lost weight. What advice would you give to a young doctor as the first course of action? Hello, my brother has a history of mental illness and depression, he s currently in Nigeria and refusing to eat and has lost a lot of weight, I have advised my siblings to contact a medical professional. In such a scenario, could you please advice me on the course of action is, I am told by my friend that they’ll need to inject him with vitamins inorder for him to regain his appetite. Do you concur and if so, what’s the name or content of such injection? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Tue, 21 Apr 2015
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern regarding your brother. He has history of mental illness and depression. In depression it is common to see loss of appetite and poor sleep habits apart from other classical symptoms. Loss of appetite results in weight loss. As per my opinion he need proper treatment for depression. Common antidepressants like Sertraline, Mirtazapine etc are not only good drugs for depression but these drugs also help to improve the appetite.

Vitamin B12 can help to improve his anxiety and depression symptoms and his activity levels will increase but these drugs would not cause much increase in appetite. Take him to a psychiatrist and get him evaluated and take proper prescription of drugs.

Thanks, Take care
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How Should Depression, Mental Illness And Loss Of Appetite Be Treated?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern regarding your brother. He has history of mental illness and depression. In depression it is common to see loss of appetite and poor sleep habits apart from other classical symptoms. Loss of appetite results in weight loss. As per my opinion he need proper treatment for depression. Common antidepressants like Sertraline, Mirtazapine etc are not only good drugs for depression but these drugs also help to improve the appetite. Vitamin B12 can help to improve his anxiety and depression symptoms and his activity levels will increase but these drugs would not cause much increase in appetite. Take him to a psychiatrist and get him evaluated and take proper prescription of drugs. Thanks, Take care