Loss of Appetite

Alternate Names : Anorexia, Decreased Appetite

What are the treatments for the condition?

There are medications available to try to stimulate appetite in people with an incurable cause for their loss of appetite. These medications include megestrol and dronabinol. If nausea is the main reason for the loss of appetite, medications to treat nausea, such as ondansetron or promethazine, can be given. For other people, nutrition supplements may be needed, such as high-calorie nutrition shakes or even artificial feeding through a gastrostomy tube. These measures are sometimes needed in people with dementia.

Other treatment is directed at the underlying cause. For instance, people with appendicitis usually need surgery. Those with infections often need antibiotics. Those with low thyroid hormone levels need hormone replacement pills. Those with cancer may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the treatments used. For instance, medications used to treat nausea may cause drowsiness. Antibiotics may cause allergic reactions or stomach upset. Surgery carries a risk of infection and bleeding.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

This depends on the cause. For instance, pregnant women often get their appetite back after several weeks and need no further treatment. Those with diabetes need lifelong monitoring and treatment. Those with cancer may die if treatment doesn't cure the cancer.

How is the condition monitored?

The person's weight and nutritional status may be monitored. Affected people can report any change in appetite or response from treatment to the healthcare provider. Further monitoring is related to the underlying condition. For instance, those with low thyroid hormone levels who are taking hormone replacement pills may need thyroid function tests in the future to make sure the right dose is being given.