Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nutrition Science

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Chen-Maynard, Dorothy

Abstract

Background and aims: The obesity epidemic has been well-documented and weight loss medications are becoming increasingly popular. Patients with psychiatric conditions often suffer metabolic side effects from psychotropic medications and are often prescribed weight loss medications to mitigate these side effects. When treating patients on these medications concurrently, understanding their potential side effects is essential for developing an effective care plan. Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), pharmacists, and mental health professionals working in mental health facilities should be aware of these potential side effects to better care for their patients.

Methods: After completing a thorough literature review, a handbook was developed detailing potential drug-nutrient interactions of weight loss and psychotropic medications. Participants were recruited via email by the authors, provided informed consent, and were instructed to complete a survey. This survey asked participants to provide their contact information and answer questions to ensure inclusion criteria were met. Participants received a copy of the handbook via email and evaluated it based on its accuracy, organization, and usability. The handbook was edited based on the most frequent and pertinent suggestions provided in the evaluation forms. The final version was emailed to participants who requested a copy in their initial survey.

Results: Among participants (n = 16), 93.8% reported that they would use this handbook, with the majority (56.3%) providing no recommendations for edits. Recommendations from the remaining participants fell into the following categories: formatting, summarizations, and additional content specific to their discipline.

Conclusion: Further research is needed to evaluate the handbook’s impact on clinical outcomes; however, these findings suggest that it may be a practical resource for health care teams.

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