Browse Medications by Everyday Health Concerns: Loss of appetite
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Loss of appetite?
Loss of appetite refers to a decrease in the desire to eat, which can lead to insufficient nutrition. While it's common to experience a reduced appetite from time to time, persistent loss of appetite could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Understanding the causes can help you take the right steps toward recovery and maintaining a balanced diet.
Symptoms of Loss of appetite
Common symptoms include:
- Reduced desire to eat or feeling uninterested in food
- Unexplained weight loss or not eating enough during meals
- Lack of energy or fatigue
- Nausea or a full feeling after eating small amounts
- Difficulty enjoying meals that were once appetizing
What causes Loss of appetite?
Loss of appetite can be caused by various factors, including:
- Illnesses like the flu, cold, or infections
- Chronic conditions such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney problems
- Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or stress
- Medications or treatments, including chemotherapy or antibiotics
- Hormonal changes or imbalances, especially in thyroid function
- Digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease
- Aging or changes in metabolism
Risk factors for Loss of appetite
Some factors that may increase the likelihood of experiencing loss of appetite include:
- Being elderly, as appetite can naturally decrease with age
- Having chronic medical conditions like cancer, liver disease, or chronic infections
- Experiencing mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety
- Taking certain medications that affect appetite, like chemotherapy drugs or painkillers
- Stress, emotional distress, or lifestyle changes
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How is Loss of appetite diagnosed?
If you experience persistent loss of appetite, a doctor may:
- Perform a physical exam and discuss your symptoms
- Ask about recent changes in your eating habits or weight
- Order blood tests to check for underlying conditions like anemia or infections
- Conduct imaging tests (e.g., X-rays or ultrasounds) to rule out specific issues
- Evaluate your mental health to rule out depression or anxiety
- Recommend further tests based on the suspected cause (e.g., gastrointestinal evaluation for digestive issues)
How is Loss of appetite treated?
Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause of the loss of appetite:
- Medications to stimulate appetite if needed (e.g., megestrol acetate or dronabinol)
- Treatment for any underlying illness or infection
- Nutritional support, such as supplements or small, frequent meals
- Mental health support, including therapy for depression or anxiety
- Lifestyle changes like stress management or dietary adjustments
- In some cases, adjusting medications or switching treatments if they are causing the loss of appetite
Medications for Loss of appetite
Common medications prescribed to address loss of appetite include:
- Appetite stimulants like megestrol acetate
- Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications for mental health-related appetite loss
- Digestive aids or supplements for those with gastrointestinal issues
Can Loss of appetite be prevented?
While not all causes of loss of appetite can be prevented, you can minimize the risk by:
- Eating regular, balanced meals, even when you're not hungry
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation
- Staying active to maintain a healthy metabolism and digestion
- Keeping up with regular health check-ups to catch underlying issues early
- Seeking help for mental health concerns to address anxiety or depression
Managing Loss of appetite at home
- Try eating smaller meals throughout the day rather than large meals
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods like smoothies, soups, or protein-rich snacks
- Experiment with different textures or flavors to make meals more appealing
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as smoothies or juices, to stay hydrated
- Talk to a healthcare provider about supplements or appetite stimulants if necessary
When should you seek help for Loss of appetite?
You should consult a doctor if:
- Loss of appetite lasts for more than a few days
- You notice unexplained weight loss or feel fatigued
- You experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- You feel depressed, anxious, or have other mental health symptoms
- Your symptoms interfere with your ability to maintain adequate nutrition
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How NiHowdy helps with Loss of appetite
NiHowdy offers affordable medications that help stimulate appetite or support nutrition, including appetite stimulants and digestive aids. By using NiHowdy, you can get the treatments you need at a lower cost and improve your overall health.
Success stories with Loss of appetite
Jeffrey had been struggling with a reduced appetite due to stress and a recent illness. With the help of NiHowdy, he saved on his appetite stimulant medication, which allowed him to regain his appetite and start eating regularly again. The savings made it easier for him to prioritize his health and get back to feeling his best.
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*NiHowdy's prescription pricing is derived from various sources. While we strive to provide accurate estimates, the displayed price may not always match the pharmacy's charge. For precise pricing, please consult your pharmacy and present the BIN/GRP/PCN numbers from your NiHowdy coupon.
