Which is the best medicine for increasing appetite? A Medical Guide

October 28, 2025 •

4 min read

Approximately 15% to 25% of elderly adults and up to 70% of cancer patients experience significant appetite loss, a condition with diverse underlying causes. Identifying which is the best medicine for increasing appetite depends heavily on the individual's unique health profile, making personalized medical advice essential before beginning any treatment.

Quick Summary

This guide examines various FDA-approved and off-label prescription medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes used to stimulate appetite and manage unintentional weight loss in patients with specific health conditions like cancer, HIV, and depression.

Key Points

Consult a Doctor: The best medicine for increasing appetite depends on the underlying cause and should be determined by a healthcare provider after proper diagnosis.
FDA-Approved Options: Medications like megestrol acetate and dronabinol are FDA-approved for specific conditions causing appetite loss, such as HIV/AIDS and cancer.
Off-Label Prescriptions: Some medications, including the antidepressant mirtazapine, are used off-label for their side effect of increasing appetite and weight gain.
Supplements Can Help: Deficiencies in certain nutrients, like zinc or vitamin B-1, can be addressed with supplements, which may help restore a normal appetite.
Lifestyle is Key: Non-medical strategies such as regular exercise, managing stress, and eating smaller, more frequent meals can effectively support a healthier appetite.
Balance Risks and Benefits: All medications have potential side effects. Weighing these risks against the potential benefits is an important part of the decision-making process with your doctor.

Understanding Appetite Loss

Loss of appetite, or anorexia, is a serious medical concern that can lead to malnutrition, weakness, and other complications if left unaddressed. It is often a symptom of an underlying condition, such as chronic illness (e.g., cancer, HIV/AIDS), certain medications, mental health issues, or age-related changes. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the root cause and the most appropriate course of action, which may or may not involve medication. A variety of approaches, from lifestyle adjustments to prescription drugs, exist to help individuals regain a healthy desire to eat.

Prescription Appetite Stimulants

For moderate to severe appetite loss linked to a specific medical condition, a doctor may prescribe a medication to help. The "best" choice is highly individual and balances effectiveness with potential side effects.

Megestrol Acetate (Megace)

Megestrol acetate is a synthetic progestin that is one of the most widely used and studied appetite stimulants. It is FDA-approved for treating anorexia and cachexia (muscle and weight wasting) associated with AIDS. It works by altering hormone levels to boost appetite.

Key Benefits: Proven to improve appetite and promote weight gain in patients with chronic illness.
Considerations: Not suitable for everyone, particularly pregnant women. Potential serious side effects include blood clots, fluid retention, and adrenal suppression with prolonged use.

Dronabinol (Marinol)

As a synthetic form of THC, the active compound in cannabis, dronabinol stimulates appetite by activating cannabinoid receptors in the brain that influence hunger. It is FDA-approved for AIDS-related anorexia and for treating nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy.

Key Benefits: Effective for patients with AIDS experiencing weight loss and can also help with chemo-induced nausea.
Considerations: Can cause psychoactive side effects such as confusion, dizziness, and drowsiness. Classified as a controlled substance due to potential for dependence.

Mirtazapine (Remeron)

Though primarily an antidepressant, mirtazapine is frequently used off-label as an appetite stimulant because weight gain is a common side effect. It acts by blocking certain serotonin receptors that can inhibit appetite.

Key Benefits: Often a dual-purpose medication for patients with both depression and appetite loss.
Considerations: Potential for significant drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. Not FDA-approved specifically for appetite stimulation.

Cyproheptadine

This first-generation antihistamine is used off-label as an appetite stimulant, particularly in children and patients with specific conditions like metastatic carcinoid tumors. It works by blocking serotonin receptors.

Key Benefits: Can be effective, particularly in certain patient populations.
Considerations: Causes sedation and is not recommended for older adults. Unregulated online products containing cyproheptadine, like Apetamin, have been flagged by the FDA for serious health risks.

Comparison of Prescription Appetite Stimulants


Feature	Megestrol Acetate (Megace)	Dronabinol (Marinol)	Mirtazapine (Remeron)
FDA Approved	Yes (Anorexia/Cachexia in AIDS)	Yes (Anorexia in AIDS, Chemo-induced N/V)	No (Used off-label for appetite)
Primary Use	Anorexia, cachexia	Anorexia, nausea/vomiting	Depression, appetite stimulation
Mechanism	Synthetic progestin; alters hormones	Synthetic cannabinoid; acts on brain receptors	Antidepressant; blocks serotonin receptors
Common Side Effects	Weight gain, mood changes, blood clots	Drowsiness, confusion, dizziness	Sedation, dizziness, increased appetite
Key Risks	High risk of thromboembolic events (blood clots)	Psychoactive effects, controlled substance	Drowsiness, potential for significant weight gain
Special Considerations	Not for all patients, especially those with history of blood clots	Can affect mental state, especially in vulnerable populations	Can serve a dual purpose for depression and appetite issues

Non-Medical and Supplemental Options

For individuals with milder appetite issues or those seeking to avoid potential drug side effects, several non-medical options can help, often recommended in conjunction with a doctor or dietitian.

Address Nutritional Deficiencies: Zinc and vitamin B-1 deficiencies can cause a loss of appetite. Correcting these with supplements under a healthcare provider's guidance can restore it.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Some research suggests marine-based omega-3s, found in fish oil, may help improve appetite.
Bitter Herbs: Advocates of naturopathy sometimes recommend bitter herbs like gentian root or wormwood to support digestive activity and stimulate a desire to eat.
Dietary Adjustments: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can be less overwhelming than three large ones. High-calorie, nutrient-dense foods like protein shakes can also help.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Appetite

In addition to medical or supplemental interventions, adjusting daily habits can have a significant positive effect.

Increase Physical Activity: Regular, moderate exercise can boost metabolism and naturally stimulate hunger cues.
Make Meals Enjoyable: Create a pleasant eating environment, whether it's by eating with others or preparing flavorful, visually appealing foods.
Manage Stress and Anxiety: High stress levels can suppress appetite. Practices like meditation or spending time outdoors can help manage mood and improve eating habits.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Options

There is no single "best" medicine for increasing appetite, as the most effective approach is tailored to the individual and the underlying cause. While prescription drugs like megestrol acetate and dronabinol are proven treatments for specific chronic conditions, they carry significant side effects. Off-label options like mirtazapine and natural supplements like zinc or omega-3s offer alternatives, but all require careful consideration. Consulting a healthcare professional is the critical first step to getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, weighing the benefits against the risks of any medication. Many people find success by combining medical treatment with healthy dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

For more information on managing medical conditions, see resources from authoritative sources like the Cleveland Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Loss of appetite can stem from various factors, including stress, infections, chronic illnesses like cancer or HIV/AIDS, mental health issues, certain medications, hormonal changes, and aging.

While supplements like zinc and omega-3s are available over-the-counter and may help in certain deficiency cases, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider first. Supplements are not regulated with the same rigor as prescription drugs and can have side effects or interact with other medications.

Yes, natural methods include incorporating regular physical activity, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and choosing nutrient-dense foods. Managing stress and creating a pleasant mealtime environment can also make a significant difference.

Side effects vary by medication. For example, megestrol can cause blood clots, dronabinol may cause drowsiness and confusion, and mirtazapine often leads to sedation and weight gain. A doctor should discuss potential side effects before prescribing.

FDA-approved appetite stimulants like megestrol and dronabinol require a prescription. Over-the-counter options are generally limited to supplements like vitamins and minerals, which may only be effective if you have a deficiency.

Corticosteroids like prednisone can temporarily boost appetite and increase feelings of well-being. However, they are not suitable for long-term use due to severe side effects and are typically reserved for patients with a short life expectancy.

The time it takes to see results can vary depending on the medication and the individual. Many users experience an increase in appetite within a few days to a week of consistent use, but a full evaluation of effectiveness may take longer.