Caplyta or Vraylar instead of Clozapine?

Medications
1

I saw my nurse today for a weigh-in. I gained a half a pound but I actually lost 3 lbs of fat and gained 3 lbs of muscle…but I’m still at 273 lbs.!

I wake up at 5 am four times a week and swim for an hour… I’ve started walking but can only go about a mile before my feet/ankles work. I’m always craving carbs and fats even tho I try to eat healthy most days. I think it’s the clozapine messing with my metabolism…

I’ve been on clozapine about 1.75 years now, and it’s been the best medication for psychosis, self-harm, and suicidal ideation that I’ve ever been on. This year I’ve had a total of 7 inpatient days, whereas a couple years ago it was every other month. BUT I’m so, so tired of weighing as much as an NFL linebacker. My knees always hurt, I can’t enjoy riding my bike anymore cuz my ass hurts too much, and I feel like a big fat slug all the time.

I’m seeing my pdoc in a couple weeks and plan to ask him about either Vraylar or Caplyta. I’m wondering if any of you out there have had success psychologically and physically (ie. no weight gain) with either of these meds. I’ve tried to read some PubMed articles, but I’m looking for those who have lived experience with these meds.
I’m seeing my counselor on Thursday, and will discuss this with her, too.

Anyways, thanks for any advice y’all can give.

3

It’s not advicesble to switch from Clozapine to another antipsychotic because that it is ranked as the strongest antipsychotic and reserved for more complex cases but it’s possible that the other meds you mentioned will work for you. But bare in mind that you run the risk that the Clozapine maybe won’t work again if you have to restart Clozapine treatment.

4

Many think Caplyta is weak. I would not suggest it in your case.

1 Like
5

Yeah caplyta binds to dopamine th least out of all antipsychotics. Sp if your treatment resistant it might not be the best idea. However theoretocally of its the weakest that would suggest its best for side effects. Ill prolly take caplyta if i get psychosis again. Ive never had a med not get rid of my psychosis. So i think it will be fine for me.

6

According to studies Vraylar and Caplyta are very weak. I am going to add Vraylar to my 5mg Risperidone.