Which antidepressants cause the most weight gain?

Which antidepressants cause the most weight gain?

The antidepressants most likely to cause weight gain include amitriptyline (Brand name: Elavil), mirtazapine (Remeron), paroxetine (Paxil, Brisdelle, Pexeva), escitalopram (Lexapro), sertraline (Zoloft), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and citalopram (Celexa).

Does weight gain from antidepressants go away?

Once they start taking an antidepressant, however, they begin to feel better and as a result, their appetite may come back, they may eat more, and eventually return to their previous weight.

How can I avoid gaining weight on antidepressants?

If you gain weight after starting an antidepressant, discuss the medication’s benefits and side effects with your doctor. If the benefits outweigh the side effect of weight gain, consider managing your weight by eating healthier and getting more physical activity while enjoying an improved mood due to the medication.

Why do antidepressants make you gain weight?

Antidepressants interfere with serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety and mood while also controlling appetite. In particular, these changes may increase cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods, such as bread, pasta, and desserts. When people are depressed, their appetites are affected.

How much weight can you gain on antidepressants?

Experts say that for up to 25% of people, most antidepressant medications — including the popular SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) drugs like Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft — can cause a weight gain of 10 pounds or more.

What is best antidepressant for weight loss?

Of these three medications, bupropion (Wellbutrin) is the most consistently associated with weight loss. Several studies, including a 2019 meta-analysis of 27 studies, found that bupropion (Wellbutrin) was the only commonly used antidepressant associated with weight loss.

How do I get my metabolism back after antidepressants?

Here are some ways to lose weight gained due to medication use:

1. Switch to a different medication. The first strategy to consider involves changing medications.
2. Lower medication dosage.
3. Limit portion sizes.
4. Exercise.
5. Eat more protein.
6. Talk to a dietitian.
7. Avoid alcohol.
8. Get enough sleep.

Do antidepressants slow metabolism?

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.

Can you lose weight while on antidepressants?

SSRIs may cause weight loss with short-term use, but taking them for 6 months or more can lead to an increase in weight. Your doctor will discuss benefits, risks, and side effects before you start any new medication. This includes weight-related side effects of antidepressants.

How much weight do you gain from antidepressants?

How can I lose weight while taking antidepressants?

Increasing both aerobic exercise and strength training, ideally four times a week for a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes, can increase muscle tone and metabolism and reduce fat stores. Regular exercise has also been shown to reduce risk for depression relapse when combined with a stable medication regimen.