Citalopram weight loss. Citalopram and Weight Changes: Understanding the Link and Managing Your Health

21.09.202309.07.2023 by alexxlab

How does Citalopram affect body weight. What factors contribute to weight changes while taking antidepressants. How can you maintain a healthy weight while on Celexa. What lifestyle modifications can help manage weight while taking SSRIs.

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The Relationship Between Citalopram and Body Weight

Citalopram, marketed under the brand name Celexa, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression treatment. Many patients express concerns about potential weight changes when considering antidepressant medications. While weight fluctuations are possible with Celexa use, the effects vary significantly between individuals.

Research indicates that Celexa may cause slight weight gain or loss, but these changes are typically minimal. A 2014 study examining over 22,000 patient records found that citalopram was associated with less weight gain over 12 months compared to other antidepressants like amitriptyline and nortriptyline.

Potential Mechanisms of Weight Change

Improved appetite due to symptom relief
Metabolic changes influenced by the medication
Alterations in eating habits or food preferences
Indirect effects on physical activity levels

It’s important to note that weight changes observed while taking Celexa may not be directly caused by the medication itself. Instead, they could result from various factors, including the alleviation of depressive symptoms that previously affected appetite and activity levels.

Distinguishing Between Medication Effects and Other Factors

When evaluating weight changes during antidepressant treatment, it’s crucial to consider multiple potential influences beyond the medication itself. Depression can independently impact weight, with some individuals experiencing decreased appetite and weight loss, while others may engage in emotional eating leading to weight gain.

Common Factors Affecting Weight Beyond Medication

Lifestyle changes
Alterations in physical activity
Hormonal fluctuations
Coexisting medical conditions
Other medications
Stress levels
Sleep patterns

Can depression itself cause weight changes? Yes, depression can significantly impact appetite and eating habits. Some individuals with depression may experience a loss of interest in food and subsequent weight loss, while others might turn to food for comfort, potentially leading to weight gain. This variability makes it challenging to determine whether observed weight changes are due to the underlying condition or the medication used to treat it.

Managing Weight While Taking Citalopram

If you’re concerned about weight changes while taking Celexa, it’s essential to approach the situation holistically. Never discontinue your medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potentially worsen your condition.

Strategies for Healthy Weight Management

Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider
Monitor your weight regularly
Focus on balanced nutrition
Incorporate regular physical activity
Practice mindful eating
Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Ensure adequate sleep

How can you differentiate between medication-induced weight changes and those caused by other factors? Keep a detailed journal of your diet, physical activity, mood, and any life changes. This information can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and determine the most likely causes of weight fluctuations.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Weight Management

Regardless of whether weight changes are directly related to Celexa use, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help you maintain a stable weight and improve overall well-being. Consider implementing the following strategies:

Dietary Adjustments

Reduce intake of sugary foods and beverages
Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet
Practice portion control
Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
Choose whole grains and lean proteins
Stay hydrated with water instead of calorie-rich drinks

Physical Activity Recommendations

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
Incorporate strength training exercises twice a week
Find activities you enjoy to increase adherence
Take the stairs instead of elevators when possible
Consider using a standing desk or taking regular breaks from sitting
Engage in outdoor activities to combine exercise with nature exposure

How can you make sustainable lifestyle changes while managing depression? Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase your efforts. Celebrate small victories and be patient with yourself. Remember that consistency is key, and even minor improvements can have significant long-term benefits for both your physical and mental health.

The Role of Mental Health in Weight Management

Managing your weight while taking antidepressants involves more than just diet and exercise. Your mental health plays a crucial role in your ability to maintain healthy habits and respond to physical changes.

Psychological Factors Influencing Weight

Emotional eating patterns
Body image concerns
Motivation levels
Stress management skills
Self-esteem and self-efficacy

How does improving mental health contribute to better weight management? As your depression symptoms improve with treatment, you may find it easier to engage in health-promoting behaviors. Enhanced mood and energy levels can increase motivation for physical activity and mindful eating. Additionally, developing better stress management techniques can reduce reliance on food as a coping mechanism.

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential when taking any antidepressant medication. These appointments allow for ongoing assessment of both your mental health progress and any physical side effects, including weight changes.

Key Points for Treatment Monitoring

Track your weight and body measurements
Report any significant changes to your doctor
Discuss your concerns openly and honestly
Be prepared to adjust your treatment plan if needed
Consider alternative medications if side effects are problematic

When should you consider switching to a different antidepressant? If weight changes or other side effects significantly impact your quality of life or adherence to treatment, it may be worth exploring alternative options. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and risks of different medications based on your individual needs and response to treatment.

The Bigger Picture: Balancing Mental Health and Physical Well-being

While managing potential weight changes is important, it’s crucial to keep the primary goal of antidepressant treatment in mind: improving your mental health and overall quality of life. Sometimes, the benefits of effective depression treatment may outweigh concerns about minor weight fluctuations.

Holistic Approach to Well-being

Prioritize mental health improvement
Focus on overall health rather than just weight
Cultivate a positive body image
Develop sustainable, health-promoting habits
Seek support from mental health professionals and support groups

How can you maintain a balanced perspective on weight changes while treating depression? Remember that your worth is not determined by your weight or appearance. Focus on how treatment improves your mood, energy levels, and ability to engage in activities you enjoy. Celebrate non-scale victories, such as improved sleep, better concentration, or increased social engagement.

In conclusion, while Citalopram may cause slight weight changes in some individuals, these effects are typically minimal and can often be managed through lifestyle modifications. By maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, adopting healthy habits, and focusing on overall well-being, you can effectively manage your mental health while minimizing concerns about weight fluctuations. Remember that finding the right balance may take time and patience, but with persistence and support, it’s possible to achieve both mental and physical health improvements.

Is There a Link, Weight Loss Tips & More

Celexa and Weight Gain: Is There a Link, Weight Loss Tips & More

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Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D. — By University of Illinois — Updated on March 27, 2019

Overview

Weight gain is a common concern for people considering antidepressant drugs, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as escitalopram (Lexapro) and sertraline (Zoloft).

Celexa, the brand-name version of the drug citalopram, is another type of SSRI. It affects different people in different ways. It could cause you to have a small gain or a small loss in body weight, or it could cause no weight change at all.

If you do gain weight, it could be the result of many different factors. Here’s what you need to know.

Medications used to treat depression can affect your appetite and your metabolism. In some cases, these effects can cause you to gain or lose weight.

Celexa has been associated with slight weight gain, but it’s thought that the drug itself doesn’t cause this effect. Rather, the weight increase is likely due to improved appetite from taking the drug. A better appetite can cause you to eat more, leading to increased body weight.

On the other hand, Celexa could also reduce your appetite, leading to slight weight loss. Studies have demonstrated both effects. It’s hard to say whether you should expect weight gain or weight loss.

In a 2014 study of more than 22,000 patient records, amitriptyline, bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL), and nortriptyline (Pamelor) caused less weight gain than citalopram over the course of 12 months.

Keep in mind that weight changes due to taking antidepressants are typically small, usually within a few pounds. If Celexa has an effect on your weight at all, whether it’s weight gain or weight loss, it’ll likely be minor.

If you think Celexa is causing you to gain weight, don’t stop taking it without talking to your doctor. Stopping Celexa abruptly can cause problems such as anxiety, moodiness, confusion, and trouble sleeping.

Your doctor can work with you to taper your dosage to reduce or prevent side effects.

Keep in mind that weight gain can be caused by other factors besides the drug you’re taking.

For instance, depression itself can lead to weight changes. Some people with depression have no appetite, while others eat more than usual. It can be hard to tell if weight changes are caused by depression or the medication used to treat it.

Many other factors can also affect your weight. Talk to your doctor if you’re doing any of the following things:

Adopting unhealthy habits, such as:
- having a sedentary lifestyle, or spending most of the day sitting, lying down, or doing little physical activity
- not exercising
- consuming lots of foods or drinks that have high amounts of sugar or fat
Taking certain medications, such as:
- birth control pills
- corticosteroids such as prednisone (Rayos) or methylprednisolone (Medrol)
- antipsychotics used to treat bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression
- certain medications used to treat diabetes, including insulin
Having certain health conditions and mental health concerns, such as:
- hypothyroidism
- heart failure
- digestive system problems
- chronic infection
- dehydration
- eating disorders such as bulimia
- stress
Experiencing changes in women’s hormones caused by pregnancy or menopause

If you’ve gained weight and are concerned about it, try these tips for improving your diet and getting more exercise in your day:

Cut back on sweets and sugary drinks.
Replace high-calorie foods with tasty fruits and vegetables.
Give yourself smaller portions and eat more frequently throughout the day.
Eat slowly.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Get outside and take a walk.
Start an exercise program with your doctor’s guidance.

It’s always a good idea to get professional guidance when trying to lose weight.

Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any physical activity. If you need help managing your diet, ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian. For more suggestions on how to lose weight safely, check out these additional weight loss strategies.

If you gain or lose a considerable amount of weight after starting Celexa, talk to your doctor to discuss what may have caused the change. A gain of 10 percent or more of your body weight could be cause for concern, especially if it occurs over just a few weeks.

If your doctor thinks the weight gain is related to your use of Celexa, ask if lowering your dosage or trying a different antidepressant could help.

If your doctor doesn’t think your weight gain is related to your use of Celexa, discuss what might be the real cause. If you’re making healthy lifestyle choices but still gaining unwanted weight, be sure to let your doctor know.

In any case, feel free to talk to your doctor about your weight concerns and to ask any questions you may have. These might include:

Do you think my weight gain was caused by taking Celexa?
If so, should I take a lower dose or switch to a different medication?
What advice do you have to help me lose weight?
Can you refer me to a registered dietitian for help with my diet?
What are some safe ways for me to get more active?

Q:

Is it true that exercise can help with depression?

Anonymous patient

A:

Exercise is a great tool for the body. It has a number of documented positive effects including releasing chemicals that make your brain and body feel good. Regular exercise can help to alleviate several symptoms of depression and can sometimes be successful on its own in treating mild seasonal depressive symptoms. If you feel that you have depression symptoms that are interrupting your life, you should speak with your doctor to see if exercise alone or a combination of exercise and medication can help to treat your symptoms.

Dena Westphalen, PharmDAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Last medically reviewed on March 27, 2019

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Blumenthal SR, et al. (2014). An electronic health records study of long-term weight gain following antidepressant use. DOI:
10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2014.414
Celexa – citalopram hydrobromide tablet, film coated. (2019).
dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=4259d9b1-de34-43a4-85a8-41dd214e9177
Mental health medications. (2016).
nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications/index.shtml

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Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D. — By University of Illinois — Updated on March 27, 2019

Does Celexa Cause Weight Loss?

Celexa (also referred to by the generic name citalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This class of antidepressant medication increases serotonin levels in your brain as a way of keeping your mental health balanced and treating depressive disorders.

This prescription medication does tend to work for many people dealing with a depressive disorder. One review of studies found that it was superior to a placebo in the treatment of depression.

But symptoms of depression aren’t the only thing Celexa can be used to treat. It is also used in the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder or panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, eating disorders, alcoholism and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

As with any medication, there are potential side effects. One side effect that some people talk about is weight loss.

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Can Celexa Cause Weight Loss?

Citalopram is a prescription medication that can be taken in liquid or tablet form. Generally, a mental health professional will start you on a low dose and then increase it gradually. Doing so can help lower your risk of side effects.

Celexa is meant to be taken once a day with or without food. The starting daily dose for major depressive disorder is usually 10mg a day and the maximum dose is 20mg a day.

Even if you start on a lower dose, you may experience side effects. Some of the more common side effects of citalopram include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, changes in your sex drive, decreased appetite and — yes — weight loss.

You should know, when it comes to weight fluctuations, it’s usually thought that antidepressants can lead to weight gain, rather than weight loss. There’s even evidence to back this up. In a large systematic review, it was found that most studies of weight changes and antidepressants concluded that there was an average of a five percent weight increase in people taking antidepressants. So, it may be confusing that one of the side effects is weight loss, rather than potential weight gain.

First, even though weight gain is a commonly-talked about side effect of antidepressants, it isn’t actually that common. Just 10 percent of people who are longtime users of SSRIs say they’ve gained some weight.

So, not everyone gains weight on antidepressants. And because one side effect of taking citalopram is a decreased appetite, you may notice you actually lose some weight.

If you are bothered by any of the side effects of citalopram or you want to stop taking it for another reason, do not stop cold turkey. Instead, work with a healthcare provider to wean yourself off of it. By doing this, you can avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Other Causes of Weight Loss

If you are taking Celexa for depression and notice you’ve lost weight, it could be a bit of a chicken and the egg situation. This is because major depression can cause some people to eat more or engage in less physical activity due to low energy levels or mood swings. So, then, if they start taking citalopram and those depression symptoms (like lack of energy) go away, they may become more active or eat a bit less and notice weight falling away.

If your weight loss isn’t connected to your depression, you should seek medical attention to look for the root of the issue. While it’s normal for weight to fluctuate a bit each month or week, or even day by day, weight loss of 10 pounds or more in the span of six to 12 months without trying is considered unexplained weight loss.

There are a variety of other things and medical conditions that can cause unexplained weight loss, including:

In addition to these things, there are more serious things that can cause weight loss. These include cancer, drug misuse and more.

If you notice you are losing weight, you should speak to an online psychiatrist so that they can monitor it and help you find a cause.

What to Do About Weight Loss

A little weight loss isn’t a big deal — heck, it may even be welcomed by some. But if you notice a significant weight loss, it’s worth repeating: You really should speak with a healthcare provider about what to do and what might be causing this weight loss.

If it’s determined your weight loss was caused by a decreased appetite due to taking Celexa, there are a few things you can do to put the weight back on — should you want or need to.

If your weight loss has put you below a healthy body weight, this will be particularly important.

Here are some things you can do to gain weight in a healthy way:

Reach for calorie-dense foods: Items like nuts and cheese are nutritious and filled with healthy fats. They will help bring more calories into your diet, so you can gain a little weight.
Try a protein shake: Another way to boost calories in a healthy way is through drinking protein shakes. They pack a lot of calories in a small amount, so even if you’re not hungry, you should be able to get through one.
Go for many small meals: Can’t get through a big meal? No problem. Break your meals up into smaller meals throughout the day. The goal should be to eat every two to three hours.

If you add about 500 calories a day to your regular diet, you should expect to gain about a pound a week.

The Connection Between Celexa and Weight Loss

Celexa is a medication that is most often taken for the treatment of depression and certain anxiety disorders. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which means it works by boosting levels of serotonin in your brain.

Like with many other medications, there are common side effects associated with taking Celexa. One such side effect is changes in weight.

While it’s commonly thought that taking an SSRI may make some people gain weight, for some, taking Celexa can lead to a loss of appetite and even weight loss. Usually, this is nothing to worry about and will subside as you adjust to taking this medication.

If you are looking to gain weight back, you can increase the number of calories you consume a day.

If you lose weight while on citalopram, you should talk to a healthcare professional for medical advice. They can help you decide if you want to switch antidepressants or give you tips about lifestyle tweaks you can make to help address your weight loss.

10 Sources

Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.

Citalopram. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699001.html
Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
Keller, M., (2000). Citalopram therapy for depression: a review of 10 years of European experience and data from U.S. clinical trials. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11206593/
Citalopram. National Alliance of Mental Illness. Retrieved from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Citalopram-(Celexa)
Celexa. Highlights of Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021323s040lbl.pdf
Alonso-Pedrero, L., Bes-Rastrollo, M., Marti, A., (2019). Effects of antidepressant and antipsychotic use on weight gain: A systematic review. Obs Rev. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31524318/
Medication Frequently Asked Questions. National Alliance of Mental Illness. Retrieved from https://www.nami. org/FAQ/Mental-Health-Medication-FAQ/My-doctor-recently-started-me-on-an-antidepressant
Depression. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression
Unexplained Weight Loss. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17770-unexplained-weight-loss
How to Gain Weight Safely. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-gain-weight/

Find out what are the best antidepressants for weight loss?

The problem of excess weight is often associated with disorders of the nervous system. This group of ailments includes compulsive overeating and bulimia. Taking antidepressants for weight loss, some patients hope to get rid of the pathological condition. But is it really so? Can drugs, whose action is aimed at the treatment of neurosis and depression, help to cope with the constant desire to eat?

Reasons for overeating

The female half of the population is more susceptible to eating disorders. The first signs of deviation may appear even in the tender adolescence. Various problems characteristic of this age are often “jammed” in attempts to compensate for the feelings and emotions shown. At some point, it begins to seem that overeating helps to overcome life’s troubles.

Fluoxetine: latest patient reviews, composition

Bulimia nervosa and compulsive overeating (binge eating) are more common than anorexia. And if in the latter case the symptoms of the pathological condition quickly become noticeable to others, then in the case of excessive food intake, normal weight can be maintained for a long time.

The following factors may influence the development of an eating disorder:

depression;
depression;
psychological trauma;
low self-esteem;
genetic predisposition;
high standards.

Bouts of uncontrolled food consumption often occur against the background of sudden mood swings.

It should be borne in mind that, in addition to disorders of the psycho-emotional state, the disease can also lead to obesity, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular pathologies.

Methods of treatment

Complex therapy usually helps to completely get rid of both the causes that led to weight gain and extra pounds. In treatment, it is important to influence the problem from different angles. First of all, special attention is paid to the normalization of the nervous system. Many people start taking antidepressants for weight loss. Without prescriptions in a pharmacy, you can buy only the safest drugs from this group.

Fluoxetine for weight loss: latest reviews and tips

Indeed, some antidepressants, in addition to their main purpose, promote weight loss by increasing the production of the hormone serotonin. However, without strict indications – diseases of the nervous system – taking drugs that have a toxic effect is highly discouraged. Only a specialist can prescribe such drugs, since some antidepressants containing a high concentration of psychotropic substances can cause a backlash and “turn off” the feeling of fullness.

For weight loss, you should choose antidepressants that will have a positive effect on tone and increase vitality. This will be of particular benefit when playing sports. In addition to drug exposure, it will also be necessary to normalize the regime of rest and work, to avoid stressful situations as much as possible.

Specialists warn that any medications that can affect the psycho-emotional state are intended solely to suppress a depressive state, eliminate severe nervous overexcitation. Therefore, only in the presence of similar deviations and weight gain against this background, antidepressants for weight loss can be prescribed.

Latest generation antidepressants. Antidepressants: which are better?…

The list of drugs that can be freely purchased at the pharmacy is not long. To reduce weight and restore a normal psycho-emotional state, antidepressants belonging to the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are suitable. The substance is necessary for the brain to transmit signals to neurons. The drugs are able to normalize the level of serotonin and at the same time do not cause serious side effects, unlike the drugs that were used before.

Popular and effective drugs

In medical practice, one antidepressant is especially often used for weight loss. The name of this drug is Fluoxetine. It is not specifically designed for weight loss, but the effect that it has on the nervous system allows you to cope with the feeling of hunger.

The most common antidepressants used for weight loss also include the following:

Bupropion;
Zoloft;
Venlafaxine;
Prozac;
Citalopram;
Paxil.

Once the diagnosis is made and the cause of the condition is established, the doctor may prescribe an antidepressant for weight loss. What is best for a particular case and which treatment regimen will help to cope with the problem depends on the severity of the patient’s condition. It should be borne in mind that antidepressants are completely different drugs that can be taken without prior consultation with a specialist. Each remedy has certain indications and contraindications for use, and can also provoke the development of a number of negative consequences.

Fluoxetine Slimming

This is one of the most commonly used antidepressants for eating disorders. “Fluoxetine” is prescribed for patients suffering from bulimia and compulsive overeating. With the timely start of treatment with this drug, it is possible to prevent the development of obesity, metabolic disorders in the body.

The pharmacological action of the drug, according to the instructions, is aimed at inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin. This helps to improve mental activity, raise mood, reduce feelings of helplessness and apathy, get rid of anxieties, fears and worries. Fluoxetine, like other antidepressants for weight loss from the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, should be taken for at least 2 weeks to achieve a pronounced therapeutic effect.

Indications for prescription

Self-administration of even the safest antidepressant in an attempt to lose weight is considered a rather dangerous experiment. The manufacturer recommends taking “Fluoxetine” for obsessive-compulsive disorders, depression of varying severity, neuroses, insomnia, malfunctions of the nervous system.

The desire to constantly consume a large amount of food under the influence of the drug is significantly reduced. Therefore, an antidepressant is also prescribed for eating disorders.

Treatment regimen

Many experts believe that weight gain is associated with insufficient production of serotonin. A deficiency of this substance provokes the development of a depressed state, stress, and as a result, a desire to “eat” your bad mood. In the future, such a reflex will work already at a subconscious level, which indicates dependence.

Gradually increasing body weight will again worsen mood and cause a desire to have a tasty snack. It is not always possible to get out of this vicious circle on your own. As a result of treatment with Fluoxetine, the feeling of hunger is suppressed, a surge of vigor is felt, and sleep is normalized.

Start taking the medicine with 20 mg (1 capsule) in the morning. In the absence of a clinical effect, the dose is increased to 40-60 mg and divided into several doses. According to the instructions, it is forbidden to take more than 4 capsules per day when losing weight. Otherwise, the drug may provoke the development of side effects.

Contraindications

Antidepressants for weight loss should only be taken if there are no contraindications in the patient’s history. It is forbidden to use them in the following pathologies:

glaucoma;
epilepsy;
pathologies of the central nervous system;
diabetes mellitus;
pregnancy, lactation;
pathologies of the liver and kidneys;
intolerance to the components of the medicine.

Antidepressants for weight loss: reviews

It is possible to achieve a positive effect when getting rid of extra pounds with the help of antidepressants only if the diet is followed. It does not hurt to do and improve the appearance.

Increased tone and a constant feeling of cheerfulness, a surge of strength will allow you to spend a long time in the gym. According to reviews, antidepressants such as Fluoxetine (analogous to Prozac) and Venlafaxine contribute to a noticeable weight loss as early as 2-3 months after the start of treatment. However, not all patients manage to lose weight.

Do not forget about the side effects of antidepressants. Most often they cause headaches, manic syndrome, hallucinations, tremors, hyperhidrosis, tachycardia, dysphagia, incoordination, nausea. Loss of appetite and consequent weight loss is also a side effect of many antidepressants.

Study: antidepressants lead to weight gain

May 25, 2018, 2:58 pm

Widespread use of antidepressants may contribute to rising rates of obesity in developed countries. The risk of becoming overweight in those who take drugs to combat depression for a long time is 21% higher. This conclusion was reached by doctors at King’s College London. The work was published in the medical journal The BMJ. This is reported by The Independent.

“The widespread use of antidepressants may be one of the reasons for the long-term increase in the weight of the world’s population,” said one of the co-authors of the work, Martin Gulliford.

The study showed that the risk of weight gain increased after 2-3 years of taking antidepressants. The risk of developing obesity and the appearance of extra pounds in such patients was 29% higher.

As noted by the authors, the findings suggest that antidepressants should be used less often in the treatment of mild forms of depression. In such cases, cognitive behavioral therapy and exercise should be a priority.

The study was based on health data from 300,000 British patients between 2004 and 2014. Information included data on patients taking antidepressants and their body mass indexes (BMI). The researchers adjusted for other factors that could influence weight, such as age, chronic illness, smoking, and other medications.

Weight gain of 5% of body weight or more within a year was 8.1% among patients not taking antidepressants. Among those who took medication to combat depression, the figure was 11.2%. After 3 years of taking antidepressants, the risk of gaining 5% of body weight per year increased to 46%. The study showed that the risk of becoming overweight is highest in the second and third years of taking antidepressants. In the next 6 years, the risk also remains elevated.

Researchers analyzed the effects of 12 common types of antidepressants on body weight. Thus, the drug mirtazapine (another name is remeron) in half of the cases led to an increase in the weight of patients by at least 5% of the body weight before taking the drugs. The drug citalopram increased the risk of weight gain by 26%.

According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the majority of antidepressant users are in Iceland. For every 1,000 Icelanders, there are 118 people who take drugs to fight depression.