Can Antidepressants Cause Weight Loss?
Can antidepressants cause weight loss? Antidepressants are primarily prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders. However, they can also have a range of side effects, including changes in weight. While some people gain weight, others might actually lose weight when taking these medications.
What Are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are medications commonly used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety. They work by balancing brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, that affect your mood. However, besides their primary function, these drugs can have various side effects, including weight changes.
Types of Antidepressants and Weight Changes
There are several types of antidepressants, and each can affect your weight differently. Here are the main categories:
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro). Generally, SSRIs are more likely to cause weight gain rather than weight loss. However, some people do report a small amount of weight loss initially.
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
Examples include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). These medications are also more associated with weight gain, but again, exceptions exist.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Examples are amitriptyline and nortriptyline. These are older types of antidepressants and are more likely to cause significant weight gain.
MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
Phenelzine (Nardil) is an example. MAOIs are also more likely to result in weight gain.
Atypical Antidepressants
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an example of an atypical antidepressant that’s often prescribed specifically because it’s less likely to cause weight gain. In some cases, it may even contribute to weight loss.
Why Do Antidepressants Affect Weight?
So, you might be wondering why antidepressants can have such varied effects on weight. Several factors contribute to this:
Metabolic Changes
Antidepressants can alter your metabolism, making it either faster or slower. A faster metabolism can cause weight loss, whereas a slower one can lead to weight gain.
Appetite Fluctuations
Some antidepressants may increase your appetite, causing you to eat more, while others may do the opposite.
Emotional Eating
Feeling better emotionally might reduce instances of emotional eating, which could subsequently lead to weight loss.
Is It Common to Lose Weight on Antidepressants?
According to statistics, weight gain is more common than weight loss when it comes to antidepressant use. However, it’s not impossible to lose weight while taking these medications, especially if the drug reduces your appetite or speeds up your metabolism.
What to Do If You’re Concerned About Weight Changes
If you’re worried about how an antidepressant might affect your weight, consult your healthcare provider. They can help you choose a medication that aligns with your health goals.
In People With Preexisting Conditions
In people with preexisting conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues, the effects of antidepressants on weight can be more complicated. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider.
So, in summary, while antidepressants are generally more associated with weight gain, weight loss is not entirely out of the question. It depends on the type of medication, your metabolism, and several other factors.
Further Reading: 10 Natural Antidepressants
