Do All Antidepressants Cause Weight Gain
Treatment with antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in general tend to cause weight gain with long-term treatment . Overall weight changes depend upon which antidepressant you use. Most antidepressants lead to only modest weight gain which can be addressed with diet and exercise.
- Older antidepressants like the tricyclic antidepressants , for example amitriptyline or doxepin, cause more weight gain than the SSRIs but are infrequently prescribed today for depression.
- Mirtazapine , a tetracyclic antidepressant, is known to be associated with significant weight gain. In studies, appetite increase was reported in 17% of patients treated with Remeron, and 7.5% of patients had a weight gain of at least 7% compared to the start of the study.
- In contrast, bupropion , an atypical antidepressant, is often linked with weight loss. In studies, between 14% and 19% of patients taking bupropion loss at least 2.2 kg compared to 6% on an inactive placebo.
A large cohort study in the United Kingdom looked at electronic health records to evaluate the long-term association between antidepressant prescribing and weight gain. Over 90% of patients had a diagnosis of depression.
Researchers looked at data over a 10-year period to determine the incidence of at least a 5% increase in body weight, and the number who transitioned to a status of overweight or obese.
How To Avoid Sertraline Weight Gain
While some weight gain from sertraline might be unavoidable, there are several steps that you can take to minimize the amount of weight you gain while using your medication:
Although SSRIs like sertraline have a reputation for causing weight gain, the right combination of habits and careful monitoring can help you to maintain your weight and overall wellness on antidepressants.
Which Antidepressants Best For Weight Loss
One of the best antidepressants for weight loss on the market is bupropion , which has been found to be a safer alternative to SSRIs and SNRIs. Its also been found to help people with ADHD and anxiety disorders, with the most common side effects being dizziness and sleep problems.
Bupropion doesnt have an FDA-approved indication for weight loss however, there are some studies that show it can cause modest weight loss in obese patients.
Wellbutrin also has a less serious withdrawal profile than other antidepressants meaning that if you stop taking it, youre unlikely to experience any severe or prolonged symptoms like depression, insomnia, or even hallucinations.
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Prominent Anxiety Medications That Do Not Cause Weight Gain
Anxiety medication that does not cause weight gain can include Effexor, Paxil and BuSpar. To know more about these antianxiety medicines, read on…
Anxiety medication that does not cause weight gain can include Effexor, Paxil and BuSpar. To know more about these antianxiety medicines, read on
Did You Know?By visualizing happy thoughts, our brain gets flooded with positive signals, thereby making us feel better. So, focus on positive thinking to lead a healthier life.
Becoming anxious beyond normal limits for no obvious reasons, is an anxiety disorder. It is estimated that around 40 million people residing in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders in a year. An effective form of treatment, recommended by doctors, involves use of anxiety medications. These medications relieve stress and give a feeling of relaxation. There are few side effects associated with the intake of anxiety medications, and one of them is weight gain.However, not all drugs prescribed for anxiety disorders cause significant weight gain.Some of them are given below:
What Are The Different Types Of Anxiety Disorders
It is likely for people to experience one or more co-occurring disorders such as anxiety with bipolar disorder, depression, or borderline personality disorder. There are many reasons that a person will develop anxiety. Some of these reasons include genetics, environmental stressors, or changes in the brain. When a person deals with long-term stress or trauma, changes in the brain causes anxiety which then regulates ones mood.
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How Can I Lose Weight While On Antidepressants
Losing weight is often a struggle, especially when a person is also living with a mood disorder. The causes are multiple. Increased appetite and carbohydrate craving, along with reduced activity level, are common symptoms of depression. And yes, certain antidepressants and other medications may increase appetite. However, most medications do not alter metabolism, per se. Thus, weight loss can still occur when attention is given to other factors, including the composition and timing of dietary intake.
Eating more frequently and smaller amounts, increasing the relative amount of protein eaten , reducing breads and starches, eating a healthful breakfast, and avoiding large meals or snacks late in the evening can provide a more balanced diet throughout the entire day.
If one believes their current efforts to lose weight should be more productive, a consultation with a nutritionist may be helpful. If that isnt possible, keeping a written log of ones consumption may provide clues to problem areas and reinforce better dietary habits. In particular, check out the nutritional content of commonly eaten foods and foods believed to be healthy.
Chronic, low-grade sleep deprivation is another contributor to obesity. Skipping sleep leads to persistently elevated levels of the bodys stress hormone, which can cause elevated blood sugar levels and increased fat stores. Staying up late may also make one more prone to late night snacking.
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Effect Of Formal Weight Loss Programs With Psych Medication
Even if you are already taking one of these psych-related medications and youre stressed about weight gain, or if your doctor has recently suggested that you consider taking one of these drugs but this study points to an effective way forwardto enroll in a structured weight loss program.²
After evaluating the experience of more than 17,000 men and women, comparing medical data of those who were on psychiatric medications to those not taking such medication, the researchers found that an organized weight management plan helped everyoneoverall and on averageto lose weight.²
Sean Wharton, MD, PharmD, an internal medicine specialist and director of the Wharton Medical Clinics, which is devoted to weight and diabetes management, in Toronto, Canada, and his team, reports that individuals who are taking a prescribed medication for a mental illness and following a structured weight loss program avoid weight gain based on their analysis.
In all, 4094 patients, or about 1 in 4 of those in the study, were taking at least one psychiatric medication. Most were taking an antidepressant, although about 11% took both. The aim of the study was to compare weight loss for those taking the medications and those not taking them. Data was collected from 2008 to 2017.²
In general, participants were taught to cut out 500 calories a day from their usual intake, and they returned to the clinic for every 3-4 weeks.²
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Consult The Dr Tms Therapy Team About Treating Lexapro And Weight Gain
If youre suffering from anxiety or depression that necessitates prescription medication, additional problems such as unexpected weight gain can make it even harder to cope emotionally. This means that it is important to be aware of the potential for weight gain prior to taking this type of antidepressant.
If you need additional assistance, Dr. TMS Therapy Griffith Psychiatry offers a wide range of services that help target Lexapro weight gain such as medical weight loss, medication management, TMS therapy, and even telemedicine.
- Medical Weight Loss This approach involves establishing a customized weight loss program with the assistance and guidance of a medical professional. Our team of experts use their experience and knowledge to help individuals who desire to lose weight set realistic goals that meet their specific needs. This may include behavioral modification through diet and exercise guidance as well as the use of appetite suppressant medication. The most commonly used medications for appetite suppression are Phentermine and Phendimetrazine which are safe and affordable, but other options are also available .*
If youd like to learn more about any of the services offered by Dr. TMS Therapy, contact our teamtoday.
Can Weight Gain Caused By Antidepressants Be Prevented
It may be possible to prevent weight gain that results from treatment with antidepressants.
Some medications, as noted above, are less likely to cause weight gain, so switching to one of these medications may help some patients. Lowering the dose of the medication may also help.
However, not all medications work the same way for each person, so it is important to stay on the medication that works best for you. Taking a nutritional supplement that is designed to support a healthy metabolism and balanced brain chemistry may also help.
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How To Prevent Weight Loss Due To Antidepressants
When taken as directed, antidepressants can be effective in treating both depression and anxiety.
If you lose an excessive amount of weight after starting an antidepressant, talk to your doctor about the medications benefits and side effects.
If the benefits dont outweigh the weight loss side effects, you can also ask if adjusting the doseor switching medicationsmight be helpful. Discuss the pros and cons with your doctor before making such a decision.
Zoloft Weight Gain: What You Need To Know
Medically reviewed by Kristin Hall, FNP
Sertraline, sold under the brand name Zoloft®, is a widely used antidepressant that belongs to a class of mental health medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs.
Like other antidepressants, SSRIs including Zoloft , Celexa and others can cause certain side effects, including weight gain. In fact, some studies, such as those published in the journal, BMJ Open,have shown that the more often you use them, the more weight you may gain.
Below, weve discussed the relationship between sertraline and weight gain, as well as what you can expect if youve been prescribed this antidepressant medication.
Weve also explained what you can do to reduce your risk of gaining weight after you start using sertraline or other antidepressants.
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Depression And Weight: Whats The Connection
Depression and obesity are closely related. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that people with depression are more likely to have body mass index ratings that fall under the obese category than those who dont have depression. In fact, about 43 percent of adults with depression are obese and those with moderate to severe depression who take antidepressants are the most likely to be obese among all people with depression.
Whether depression causes obesity or vice versa is open for debate. Some experts believe that obesity contributes to depression due to a poor self-image and low self-esteem that trigger or worsen depression symptoms. Other experts think that depression leads to obesity because it makes weight management difficult.
Its also possible that obesity and depression have a bidirectional relationshipobesity increases your risk of depression, and depression increases your risk for obesity. A systematic review of previous studies explains that obesity and depression may even develop at the same timeyou may begin to gain weight and experience symptoms of depression at roughly the same time.
Find Things You Enjoy
For those who eat comfort foods in excess to cope with symptoms of depression, you may find it helpful to expand your repertoire of pleasurable experiences, says Ballard.
This is important regardless of any weight concerns its important to experience pleasure, she says. A hot bath, sitting outside in nature, listening to music, working on a craft or hobby these are all examples of things I suggest clients try to soothe themselves when theyre not hungry.
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Why Lexapro Causes Weight Gain
A person taking Lexapro may experience some weight gain, especially with long-term use. That risk may continue for up to six years. There are many reasons for why this may occur.
One of Lexapro’s weight gain mechanisms is that it increases serotonin levels, and serotonin plays a role in weight control.
Additionally, Lexapro may increase a persons appetite, which usually leads to eating more and gaining weight. People who take some of the newer antidepressants, including Lexapro, may have a slightly higher rate of weight gain.
Who Should Not Use Bupropion Sr
Do not use bupropion SR if:
- You have had seizures in the past or have been diagnosed with a seizure disorder.
- You have a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa.
- You have abruptly discontinued alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs.
- You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors . Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid , phenelzine , selegiline , and tranylcypromine , linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. When MAOIs are used at the same time as bupropion, there is an increased risk of very high blood pressure levels which can lead to a medical emergency.
- You have a known allergic reaction to bupropion hydrochloride.
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Safer Medications That Dont Lead To Weight Gain/ Antidepressants That Dont Cause Weight Gain
There are plenty of other antidepressants that dont lead to weight gain. The five antidepressants that cause the least weight gain are Effexor , Wellbutrin , amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and Nefazodone .
Effexor is an antidepressant that works by preventing serotonin and norepinephrine from being reabsorbed into the neuron. It has been found to be effective in relieving depression, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder. However, it doesnt lead to weight gain like many antidepressants.
Another medication that doesnt cause weight gain is Wellbutrin . Wellbutrin has a chemical makeup very similar to amphetamines. It has been found to be effective at treating major depressive disorder when used as an adjunct treatment or alone. Other conditions it can treat include seasonal affective disorder and ADHD.
Nefazodone may also be an option for those who want relief from their depression without gaining weight. Nefazodone blocks serotonin and histamine receptors in the brain, which helps with major depression symptoms such as low moods and lack of appetite. It also has a chemical makeup similar to SSRI drugs, but it doesnt have any sexual side effects associated with SSRIs like Prozac or Zoloft do.
Which Antidepressants Cause The Least Weight Gain
Bupropion is one antidepressant that doesnt cause weight gain. With this medication, you may experience a loss in appetite as a side effect instead. This is because it stimulates the release of two chemical messengers in the brain that are linked to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.
There are also other antidepressants that dont cause weight gain like Effexor , Nefazodone , amitriptyline, and nortriptyline.
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Can I Prevent Weight Gain While On Antidepressants
Yes, the same way you prevent weight gain in general: With healthy food, exercise, sleep, and stress management.
âOptimizing your nutritional intake with plant-predominant whole foods that are nutrient-dense and rich in fiber and adding in a physical activity routine that brings joy can be very helpful in maintaining a healthy weight while taking an antidepressant,â Naidoo says.
Remember to rule out other factors, like thyroid hormone changes, menstrual cycle changes, digestive issues, or drinking more alcohol.
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How To Manage Depression
Weight gain or weight loss isnt something to feel ashamed about. Youre doing the very best you can with the tools that you have.
At the same time, if you want to manage your weight for your own personal reasons , thats OK.
Several actionable tips may help you manage your weight while living with depression.
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How To Avoid Unwanted Side Effects When Taking An Antidepressant
There are many different types of antidepressants, and they work differently on different people. Some are more likely to cause weight gain than others, so its important to speak with your doctor or psychiatrist about the side effects before you make a decision.
There are also specific alternatives that dont cause weight gain. One of the most popular non-weight-gain antidepressants is Wellbutrin XL, which belongs to a class called norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors .
Wellbutrin XL is a widely used antidepressant because it doesnt lead to weight gain and is relatively effective for those who experience depression symptoms. Another option for people looking for an antidepressant without weight gain is bupropion .
This drug works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, but it also has potential side effects like seizure and heart problems. It can be hard enough to manage depression symptoms why make things worse by gaining unwanted pounds?
Make sure you get as much information as possible before taking any medication both about its effectiveness and its potential side effects, including weight gain.
Take A Slow And Steady Approach To Fitness
Exercise is vital to lasting weight lossand your overall health. The CDC even reports that regular exercise can ease symptoms of depression. Its general guidelines for adults is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise per week. While this should be your ultimate goal, fatigue caused by depression may undermine your efforts to get active.
To lose weight while taking antidepressants, ease into a fitness routineinstead of trying for the full 150 minutes, start with 30 or 45 minutes per week. When you stick to your commitment for two or three weeks, celebrate your success! Then, increase your exercise goal by 15 or 30 minutes the following week.
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Brands Of Antidepressant Pills That Do Not Make People Gain Weight
Whether you are seeking treatment for depression and don’t want to gain weight, or you want to consider using an antidepressant to help with weight loss, knowing how these medications affect metabolism and appetite can help guide your decision making process. Medications do not replace the need to eat fewer calories than you expend each day, and they are not equally effective for all people.
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