How does Paxil affect body weight. What are the potential side effects of paroxetine. How can you prevent weight gain while taking antidepressants. What lifestyle changes can help manage weight while on Paxil.

What is Paxil and How Does It Work?

Paxil, known generically as paroxetine, is an antidepressant medication belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Paroxetine is available in various forms, including tablets, liquid, and extended-release tablets.

This prescription medication is primarily used to treat:

• Major depressive disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• Menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes)

It’s important to note that if you decide to stop taking paroxetine, you should work closely with a healthcare professional to gradually reduce your dosage. This approach helps prevent withdrawal symptoms and other unwanted side effects.

Common Side Effects of Paroxetine: What to Expect

Like most medications, paroxetine can cause various side effects. While not everyone experiences these, it’s essential to be aware of the potential effects on your body. Common side effects associated with paroxetine include:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Forgetfulness
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Sexual side effects (e.g., low libido)
• Joint pain or muscle aches
• Heartburn
• Weight changes (loss or gain)

For most individuals, these side effects typically subside after a few weeks of treatment. However, if any symptoms persist beyond this period, it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional. They can help determine if alternative psychiatric medications might be more suitable for your specific situation.

In rare cases, paroxetine may cause more serious adverse effects, including:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Fainting

If you experience any of these severe symptoms, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention.

Exploring the Link Between Paxil and Weight Gain

The relationship between Paxil and weight gain is a topic of concern for many patients. While some individuals taking antidepressants do experience weight gain, it’s important to understand that SSRIs like paroxetine are generally associated with less weight gain compared to other classes of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants.

Studies suggest that approximately 10% of people who take SSRIs for an extended period notice some weight gain. However, it’s crucial to consider that weight gain may not be a direct result of paroxetine itself. In some cases, individuals with depression may have reduced appetites, and as their symptoms improve with medication, they may begin eating more, leading to weight gain.

Research specifically examining the link between paroxetine and weight gain is limited. One study focused on individuals taking low-dose paroxetine for menopausal vasomotor symptoms found no evidence of weight gain associated with the medication. However, it’s worth noting that this study used a very low dose of paroxetine, which may not be representative of typical treatment regimens.

In conclusion, while taking paroxetine is unlikely to cause significant weight gain in most people, the possibility cannot be entirely ruled out. Individual responses to medication can vary, and it’s essential to monitor your weight and overall health while taking any antidepressant.

Strategies for Preventing Weight Gain While Taking Antidepressants

If you’re concerned about potential weight gain while taking paroxetine or have noticed changes in your weight, there are several strategies you can employ to manage your weight effectively:

1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Your first step should be to discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and may suggest adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.

2. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Regardless of medication use, adhering to a nutritious diet is crucial for weight management. Focus on incorporating:

• Lean proteins (e.g., fish, poultry, legumes)
• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables
• Healthy fats (e.g., olive oil, avocado, nuts)

A balanced diet can help support weight loss or maintenance while providing essential nutrients for overall health.

3. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Exercise plays a vital role in weight management and offers numerous additional benefits for mental health. Aim to incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercise and strength training into your routine. Even short bursts of activity, such as a 5-minute brisk walk, can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

4. Practice Mindful Eating

Pay attention to your hunger cues and practice eating mindfully. This approach can help prevent overeating and promote a healthier relationship with food.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking adequate water throughout the day can help control appetite and support overall health. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily.

6. Monitor Your Weight Regularly

Keep track of your weight by weighing yourself consistently (e.g., once a week). This practice can help you identify any significant changes early on and allow you to address them promptly.

The Importance of Mental Health in Weight Management

While managing potential weight gain is important, it’s crucial to remember that mental health should remain a priority. Effective treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can significantly improve overall quality of life and may indirectly support healthy weight management.

Mental health impacts various aspects of life, including:

• Eating habits
• Sleep patterns
• Energy levels
• Motivation for physical activity
• Stress management

By addressing mental health concerns through appropriate treatment, including medication when necessary, individuals may find it easier to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle habits that support weight management.

Alternative Treatment Options: When to Consider Switching Medications

If weight gain becomes a significant concern while taking paroxetine, it’s essential to discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider. They may consider several factors when determining whether to switch medications, including:

• The severity of your symptoms
• Your response to the current medication
• The extent of weight gain
• Other side effects you may be experiencing
• Your overall health and medical history

Some alternative antidepressants that may be associated with less weight gain include:

• Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)

However, it’s crucial to remember that each individual responds differently to medications, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication regimen.

The Role of Lifestyle Factors in Managing Weight and Mental Health

While medication plays a crucial role in managing mental health conditions, lifestyle factors can significantly impact both weight management and overall well-being. Incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine can complement your treatment plan and potentially mitigate side effects such as weight gain.

1. Prioritize Sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for both mental health and weight management. Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, potentially leading to weight gain. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night by:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Limiting screen time before bed
• Ensuring your sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to rest

2. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can contribute to both mental health issues and weight gain. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your daily routine, such as:

• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or gentle stretching
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy
• Spending time in nature

3. Build a Support Network

Having a strong support system can be invaluable when managing mental health and weight concerns. Consider:

• Joining support groups for individuals with similar experiences
• Seeking therapy or counseling
• Connecting with friends and family regularly
• Participating in community activities or volunteer work

4. Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself throughout your mental health and weight management journey. Remember that progress may not always be linear, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. Cultivate self-compassion by:

• Acknowledging your efforts and small victories
• Avoiding negative self-talk
• Treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend
• Focusing on overall health and well-being rather than just numbers on a scale

Long-Term Considerations: Balancing Mental Health and Weight Management

Managing mental health and weight concerns is often a long-term endeavor that requires ongoing attention and care. As you navigate this journey, consider the following points:

1. Regular Check-ins with Healthcare Providers

Schedule regular appointments with your mental health provider and primary care physician to monitor your progress, discuss any concerns, and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. These check-ins can help ensure that your medication remains effective while minimizing potential side effects.

2. Holistic Approach to Health

Remember that mental and physical health are closely interconnected. Adopting a holistic approach that addresses both aspects can lead to better overall outcomes. This may include incorporating complementary therapies such as:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Nutritional counseling
• Exercise programs tailored to your needs and preferences
• Mind-body practices like tai chi or qigong

3. Tracking Progress Beyond the Scale

While weight is one measure of health, it’s important to consider other indicators of well-being. Keep track of factors such as:

• Energy levels
• Mood stability
• Sleep quality
• Ability to engage in daily activities
• Overall quality of life

These factors can provide a more comprehensive picture of your health and progress.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability

Be prepared to adjust your approach as needed. What works well at one point in your journey may need to be modified as your circumstances or needs change. Remain open to trying new strategies and discussing alternative options with your healthcare team.

5. Celebrating Non-Scale Victories

Acknowledge and celebrate improvements in your mental health and overall well-being, regardless of changes in weight. These might include:

• Improved mood stability
• Better stress management
• Increased social engagement
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Greater ability to cope with challenges

By focusing on these positive changes, you can maintain motivation and a balanced perspective on your health journey.

In conclusion, while the potential for weight gain is a concern for many individuals taking Paxil (paroxetine), it’s essential to approach this issue with a balanced perspective. The benefits of effectively managing mental health conditions often outweigh the potential risk of modest weight gain. By working closely with healthcare providers, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and maintaining a holistic view of health, many individuals can successfully navigate the challenges of mental health treatment while minimizing unwanted side effects. Remember that every person’s experience is unique, and with patience, persistence, and the right support, it’s possible to find a treatment approach that optimizes both mental health and overall well-being.

Does Paxil Cause Weight Gain?

If you are taking medication to help with a mental health or physical health issue, you want it to address that issue without causing many side effects, right? 

So, it may be a real bummer to hear rumors that Paxil (also known as paroxetine) can lead to weight gain. But before you decide whether or not you’re going to take this medication based on this risk of weight gain, you should at least find out if it’s even true. 

Read on to learn about paroxetine and what psychiatric disorders it treats, and find out if it actually does lead to weight gain.

Learning More About Paxil 

Paxil — commonly called by its generic name paroxetine — is an antidepressant medication. Specifically, it is in a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. This type of antidepressant increases your levels of serotonin. 

Paroxetine comes as tablets, liquid, and extended-release tablets. In all its forms, this prescription medication is prescribed mostly for major depressive disorder (also called major depression), bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder and more. It is also sometimes used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder and symptoms of menopause (like hot flashes).  

If you take paroxetine and decide to stop, you will need to work with a healthcare professional to lower your dosage slowly until you can stop completely. This will help you avoid withdrawal symptoms and other unwanted side effects. 

Side Effects of Paroxetine

Almost all medications — including paroxetine — come with at least some potential side effects. Some common side effects associated with paroxetine are: 

• Dizziness

• Headaches

• Confusion 

• Forgetfulness

• Weakness

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Sexual side effects, like low libido

• Joint pain or muscle aches

• Heartburn

• Weight changes, like weight loss or gain

For most people, these should go away after weeks of treatment. But if any symptoms last longer than that, consult with a medical professional. They can help you figure out if there are any other types of psychiatric medication worth considering.

Along with the above, paroxetine can sometimes cause serious adverse effects, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, an irregular heart rhythm, fainting and more. These are rare, but if you do experience any of them, call a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

The Connection Between Paxil and Weight Gain

Some people who take an antidepressant medication experience weight gain. That said, SSRIs (like paroxetine) are less associated with weight gain than some other antidepressants, like tricyclic antidepressants. Approximately 10 percent of people who take SSRIs for an extended period of time notice some weight gain.

There is some thinking that weight gain may not be a direct result of paroxetine. Some people don’t eat much when they are depressed. Then, if they start taking a medication like paroxetine to treat depression, they may eat more and put on weight as their depression symptoms go away.

As for studies, there aren’t many that directly associate weight gain with paroxetine. One that did test this association focused on people who took paroxetine for vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. It found no evidence that the medication led to weight gain. But it’s worth noting that the people in this study were taking a very low-dose of paroxetine.

So, what’s the final answer? It’s not so clear cut. Taking paroxetine likely will not cause weight gain — but it cannot be completely ruled out either. 

Preventing Weight Gain From Antidepressants 

If you are nervous about weight gain from taking paroxetine or are taking it and are noticing an expanding waistline, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional. 

There are also some lifestyle tweaks you can make to make sure you manage your weight in the healthiest way possible while taking an antidepressant. 

Stick to a Healthy Diet

No matter what medications you may or may not be taking, sticking to a diet full of healthy foods is a good idea. One that includes a good amount of protein (lean meats and fishes), along with some healthy carbohydrates (fruits, veggies, beans and whole grains) and good-for-you fats (olive oil, avocado, etc.) can help with weight loss.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise can help you mitigate an increase in body weight — or lose weight, if that’s what you are looking to do.  But it also has benefits that go beyond a lower number on the scale. 

Whether you head out for a run or go to a barre class, exercise also lowers stress hormones and activates endorphins that make you feel good. Even five minutes of getting your heart rate up has been shown to lower anxiety.

Navigating Paxil and Weight Gain

Paroxetine can be an effective medication used to treat a variety of conditions, like major depressive disorder or major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder) and certain symptoms of menopause (like hot flashes).  

Adverse effects associated with paroxetine include headaches, confusion, sexual side effects like low libido and more. But these side effects tend to go away after a few weeks and despite any potential side effects, paroxetine is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety. 

There is some evidence that antidepressants can cause weight gain for some people. However, paroxetine and other SSRIs are generally thought not to cause weight gain — though they can in a small number of people. 

If you are worried about an increase in weight while using paroxetine or want to speak to a professional about psychiatric disorders in general, you should schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider for medical advice.

9 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.

1. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Paroxetine-(Paxil)
2. Chu, A., Wadhwa, R., (2021, May 10). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Stat Pearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
3. Paroextine. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a698032.html
4. 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
5. Portman, D., Kaunitz, A., Kazempour, K., et al., (2014). Effects of low-dose paroxetine 7.5 mg on weight and sexual function during treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. Menopause. Retrived from https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/2014/10000/effects_of_low_dose_paroxetine_7_5_mg_on_weight.9.aspx
6. Moon, J. , Gwanpyo, K., (2020). Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. J Obes Metab Syndrom. Retrieved from https://www.jomes.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.7570/jomes20028
7. Swift, D., Johannsen, N., Lavie, C., et al., (2014). The Role of Exercise and Physical Activity in Weight Loss and Maintenance. Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033062013001655?via%3Dihub
8. Exercising to Relax. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax
9. Exercise for Stress and Anxiety. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/managing-anxiety/exercise-stress-and-anxiety

Effects of low-dose paroxetine 7.5 mg on weight and sexual function during treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause

Randomized Controlled Trial

. 2014 Oct;21(10):1082-90.

doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000000210.

David J Portman 
¹
, Andrew M Kaunitz, Kazem Kazempour, Hana Mekonnen, Sailaja Bhaskar, Joel Lippman

Affiliations

Affiliation

• ¹ From the 1Columbus Center for Women’s Health Research, Columbus, OH; 2University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL; 3Amarex Clinical Research, Germantown, MD; and 4Noven Pharmaceuticals Inc, New York, NY.

• PMID:

  24552977

• PMCID:

  PMC4175016

• DOI:

  10.1097/GME.0000000000000210

Free PMC article

Randomized Controlled Trial

David J Portman et al.

Menopause.

2014 Oct.

Free PMC article

. 2014 Oct;21(10):1082-90.

doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000000210.

Authors

David J Portman 
¹
, Andrew M Kaunitz, Kazem Kazempour, Hana Mekonnen, Sailaja Bhaskar, Joel Lippman

Affiliation

• ¹ From the 1Columbus Center for Women’s Health Research, Columbus, OH; 2University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, FL; 3Amarex Clinical Research, Germantown, MD; and 4Noven Pharmaceuticals Inc, New York, NY.

• PMID:

  24552977

• PMCID:

  PMC4175016

• DOI:

  10. 1097/GME.0000000000000210

Abstract

Objective:

Two phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled trials demonstrated that low-dose paroxetine 7.5 mg reduced the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause and had a favorable tolerability profile. The impact of paroxetine 7.5 mg on body weight and sexual function was evaluated in a pooled analysis.

Methods:

Postmenopausal women aged 40 years or older who had moderate to severe VMS were randomly assigned to receive paroxetine 7.5 mg or placebo once daily for 12 or 24 weeks. Assessments included changes in body mass index (BMI) and weight, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale score, Hot Flash-Related Daily Interference Scale sexuality subscore, and adverse events related to weight or sexual dysfunction.

Results:

Pooled efficacy and safety populations comprised 1,174 and 1,175 participants, respectively. Baseline values were similar for median weight (∼75 kg), median BMI (∼28 kg/m), and the proportion of women with sexual dysfunction (∼58%). No clinically meaningful or statistically significant changes from baseline in weight or sexual function assessments occurred in the paroxetine 7.5 mg group. Small but statistically significant increases in weight and BMI were observed in the placebo group only on week 4. No significant difference between treatment groups was observed in the proportion of participants who had 7% or higher gain in body weight on week 4, 12, or 24. Rates of adverse events suggestive of sexual dysfunction were low and similar in both treatment groups.

Conclusions:

Paroxetine 7.5 mg does not cause weight gain or negative changes in libido when used to treat menopause-associated VMS in postmenopausal women.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01101841 NCT01361308.

Figures

FIG. 1

Study design and timing of…

FIG. 1

Study design and timing of evaluations. AE, adverse event; ASEX, Arizona Sexual Experiences…

FIG. 1

Study design and timing of evaluations. AE, adverse event; ASEX, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale; HFRDIS, Hot Flash–Related Daily Interference Scale.

FIG. 2

Impact of treatment on body…

FIG. 2

Impact of treatment on body mass index (BMI). P values were calculated from…

FIG. 2

Impact of treatment on body mass index (BMI). P values were calculated from rank-transformed analysis of covariance.

FIG. 3

Impact of treatment on sexual…

FIG. 3

Impact of treatment on sexual dysfunction. P values were not significant versus placebo…

FIG. 3

Impact of treatment on sexual dysfunction. P values were not significant versus placebo for all comparisons. ASEX, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale.

FIG. 4

Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX)…

FIG. 4

Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX) score reductions in hot flash responders and hot…

FIG. 4

Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX) score reductions in hot flash responders and hot flash nonresponders in the paroxetine 7.5 mg group. Responders were defined as women who achieved a 50% or higher reduction in moderate to severe hot flash frequency from baseline. P values are the results of Wilcoxon test.

See this image and copyright information in PMC

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Publication types

MeSH terms

Substances

Weight gain with antidepressants

Weight gain with …

November 25, 2013, 09:00

25 responses

Last —

March 09, 2021, 19:00 Go to

November 25, 2013, 10:01

#1

November 25, 2013, 10:30 9000 3

#2

Nov 25, 2013 10:50 AM

#3

Guest

what exactly? Go see a psychiatrist and consult with him.

The psychiatrist prescribed seropram for me and nothing, no weight gain, everything is calm and good, as he promised me, saying – The comfort of your life will improve significantly.

November 25, 2013, 12:43

#6

Guest

Paxil

Nov 25, 2013 01:45 PM

#7

Nov 25, 2013 03:00 PM

#8

Nov 25, 2013 , 15:27

#9

November 26, 2013, November 26, 2013

#12

Blonde

No weight gain from pills if they are not eaten by the kilo. You will most likely increase your appetite and start eating more. So control it somehow consciously. I want to eat – eat cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, not pies and potatoes

Nov 27, 2013 1:07 PM

#13

Oct 10, 2014 11:41 PM

#15

September 12, 2015 01:38 PM

#18

December 27 July 16, 2018, 02:39

#19

July 16, 2018, 17:25

#18

October 23, 2019, 23:05

#18

April 28, 2020, 21:46

#19

Ekaterina

Try Phenibut. It will help with depression, panic attacks and will not affect your weight, sleep and mood in any way. You will notice the effect immediately.

August 08, 2020, 21:47

#20

Blonde

Pills don’t make you gain weight if you don’t eat them in kilos. You will most likely increase your appetite and start eating more. So control it somehow consciously. I want to eat – eat cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, not pies and potatoes

August 31, 2020, 19:30

#21

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November 08, 2020, 13:29

#22

Guest

I have the same problem that you don’t do the weight stands still, there is no strength already !!! Can someone tell me what to do, except for diet pills

January 16, 2021, 21:450003

#24

Guest

I have the same problem, that you don’t do the weight stands still, there is no strength anymore !!! Can someone tell me what to do, except for diet pills

Attention

March 09, 2021, 19:00

#25

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• Antidepressants.

  Has anyone dropped them halfway through and healed without their help in severe depression?

  126 answers

dullness of emotions, swelling, weight gain, decreased libido

Medicine and health

Reader experience

These are community reader comments. Collected into one material, carefully edited and formatted according to editorial standards.

Julia Konyakhina

collected stories

Author profile

Antidepressants can cause unpleasant symptoms, especially at the beginning of treatment.

Most of them are not dangerous and weaken after a few weeks. But some pass only after completion of therapy or a change in the drug. We asked readers to tell us what side effects of antidepressants they had to deal with and how they coped with it.

Go to the doctor

There are no recommendations for treatment in the article, only the personal experience of readers. Please consult with your doctor before deciding on treatment. The responsibility for your health rests solely with you.

Side effect No. 1

Dullness of emotions

Ksenia M
completed treatment

She took Paxil antidepressant in combination with an antipsychotic. In the first week of therapy, there were very strange sensations: emotions and feelings became dull, it seemed that I was in a vacuum.

There was also a strong thirst, libido dropped below the baseboard, I constantly wanted to sleep. A month later, the side effects disappeared, and after three months, the first improvements in mental state appeared.

Totally treated with an antidepressant for a year, after completion of therapy, there was no withdrawal syndrome.

Anna
stopped treatment

The doctor diagnosed her with generalized anxiety disorder and prescribed Paxil. I drank 1/4 of the tablet, after a couple of hours there was wild anxiety, a feeling of a lump in my throat and nausea. Fell asleep. Waking up, I felt like a vegetable: nothing irritates, does not please, all emotions are so muffled that they seem to be non-existent. She did not take the drug anymore.

Infestor
transformed

Suffered from anxiety-panic disorder, took escitalopram for about two years.

There was a feeling that the drug dulled the senses: because of it, I really felt like I didn’t give a damn. I came to the conclusion that during therapy it is better not to build a relationship with a person who is not in the subject, because it is difficult to show emotions. It seems that the partner is sexually attracted, you enjoy spending time with him, but you cannot fully express your feelings.

After treatment, the situation returned to normal. Now I feel great, I lead an active lifestyle, I go in for sports intensively. He became more collected in work and, in general, seemed to be born again.

Side effect No. 2

Weight gain

Kutro
worried about being overweight

I have been taking the antidepressant paroxetine along with the neuroleptic thioridazine for about six months. It helps well, but there is a side effect: I gained a lot of extra pounds. I have been thin all my life, and now I feel uncomfortable at the new weight.

Side effect No. 3

Decreased libido

Wintermute
already normal

I took Velaxin. At the beginning of the reception, I felt sick and had a stomach ache, as if an ulcer was exacerbated. But that’s okay. The main side effect is completely cut off libido and sensitivity. That you stroke your knee, that intimate places – everything is one. After the drug was discontinued, everything returned to normal, but it was scary.

Stefano
continues treatment

For nine months he took the antidepressant “Cipralex” along with the tranquilizer “Atarax”. Thanks to the treatment, he returned to normal life. Of the side effects were unusual dreams, decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.

After moving to another country, he turned to a new psychiatrist, who decided to replace Cipralex with Zoloft. From the last libido decreased even more, sexual intercourse became very long. After discontinuation of the drug, the negative effects persisted. As a result, I returned to Cipralex, I hope everything will be restored with time.

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Side effect No. 4

diarrhea

FLAME
took SIOSS

Goloft took. The first two weeks I had diarrhea, then everything went away. There were also difficulties in achieving orgasm, while libido remained normal.

Green-eyed
experienced only one side effect

Was treated with Cipralex for a year. The first five days there was loose stools, there were no more side effects. The mood improved, anxiety and irritability disappeared.

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Side effect No. 5

Problems with sleep

Aliya Abdullina
did not sleep well

When I took and duloxetine, there were problems with sleep. She fell asleep normally, but after four or five hours she woke up and then slept fitfully, restlessly, after waking up she did not feel rested. Even during the day, the brain seemed to turn off, my limbs twitched, as if in a fast phase of sleep.

The doctor changed the regimen of taking the drug, it became better, but I still can’t sleep during the day, even if I really want to. As soon as I fall into a dream, I immediately wake up.

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Everything else is fine. Weight and appetite did not change during therapy. Libido decreased, but quickly recovered. At the very beginning of the treatment, there was a lump in the throat, which was rather unpleasant, but this did not last long – about five days.

user1331271
had unpleasant dreams

During antidepressant therapy, she suffered from nightmares and sometimes had very strange vivid dreams. The side effects were fully manifested when the doctor changed the dosage.

burnet
slept for two days

Suffered from insomnia and eating problems. The doctor diagnosed an anxiety-depressive disorder and prescribed mirtazapine.

I did not notice any changes in my mental state. My appetite didn’t wake up, sleep problems generally worsened: I took medicine before going to bed, and then lay half the night looking at the ceiling. Waking up in the morning was a hell of a lot, just like sitting through working hours in the office. But by the evening, I magically became cheerful. This was repeated from day to day.

I don’t remember how long I abused myself by continuing to take the drug. But I remember that once I came home on Friday, sat down on the sofa and woke up on Sunday evening, and a little later fell asleep again until Monday.

Throughout the therapy it seemed that I did not exist: I either sleep, or I try to sleep, or, on the contrary, I struggle with sleep.

Side effect #6

Thirst and swelling

Beauty master
no longer panics

I drank the antidepressant “Serenata” and an antipsychotic. I suffered from terrible thirst. She got up several times during the night to drink, and by morning she was swollen like a beekeeper who fell asleep face down in a hive.

For the first two weeks of therapy, the head was like in a fog, then it went away. I gained six or seven kilograms in weight. But thanks to the treatment, her mental state returned to normal: she began to sleep better, learned to control panic.

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Side effect No. 7

Nausea

Daria
was not very worried about side effects

The doctor prescribed Serenata because of sleep problems: I didn’t sleep much, and if I fell asleep, I had nightmares. Of the side effects, there was a slight nausea, but it did not bother me much and passed after a couple of weeks. On the second day of therapy, the face was swollen. I didn’t notice anything else that was bad.

Side effect #8

Anxiety

Ninja Turtle
thought about suicide

Took antidepressants three times. The first was Paxil. He was discharged without tranquilizers, so in the very first days of therapy he was seized with wild anxiety, it came to thoughts of suicide. The doctor added a tranquilizer and the anxiety went away. But short-term memory and attention broke down.

As a result, I was transferred to Cipramil. Because of him, libido disappeared, the menstrual cycle flew off and constipation began. At the same time, the mood, as it was below the plinth, remained the same. Six months later, Anafranil was prescribed. Libido recovered, other side effects persisted. But psychologically, I felt much better, even changed jobs during therapy.

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Word by word
found the optimal dose of the drug

I took fluvoxamine for six months because of an anxiety-depressive disorder. At the beginning of therapy, anxiety increased markedly for no significant reason. A month later, the dosage of the drug was increased. At first I felt fine, but after three weeks a very unpleasant symptom appeared – tension in the body that I could not control. As a result, the dosage had to be reduced again, after which the state of health returned to normal.

Side effect no. 9

Decreased concentration

Mot
does not complain

Took mirtazapine. It was as if drunk from him. Now I’m taking Cipralex. Distractedness and drowsiness torment from time to time. But these symptoms are nothing compared to what I experienced due to generalized anxiety disorder.

Side effect No. 10

Excessive arousal

Olga Selivanova
experienced a rare side effect

Euphoria was a side effect of my therapy. Against the background of a long-term lowered mood, the colors seem to have returned to life: the world has become brighter even visually. I wanted to sing, dance and hug everyone right on the street. The effect lasted about a week, then passed. The doctor said that this is quite rare.

Six months after the treatment, I managed to feel something similar – when you get up in the morning, and you are in a good mood and have strength, and by default you feel somehow calm and good.