Hello, It is quite a common phenomenon that patients stop taking medications because of the weight gain some of the medications can cause. But there definitely are medications which are highly effective in treating Schizophrenia WITHOUT causing weight gain (Eg., Aripiprazole, which is a 2nd generation drug along with first generation anti-psychotics). Also there are other medications which can be used adjunctly, which prevent weight gain. However, patients and care takers need to understand that, the most important thing that patients need to do is cultivate a habit of excercising regularly. No drug or intevention in the world is going to help you lose weight, if it is not supported with lifestyle changes and eating right. Also the sedentary lifestyle and inactivity which is seen as a part of this ilness, is also a major contributing factor for the weight gain. Friends and family members thus, should try and constantly motivate the patient to be involved in some exercise with moderate physical activity. Therefore consut with a Psychiatrist at the earliest. He/She would devise a strategy to keep the weight in check and put her on medications which do not casue weight gain. DO NOT stop medications until advised by the doctor, ever. Every epiosde after abrupt discontinuation of medications is more severe and increases the duration of the illness. Discuss the problems you have with the side effects and get the medications changed,  but never stop treatment.