💊 Depression Meds That Cause Weight Loss

Introduction

Data shows that millions of people get affected by depression globally. Depression is a serious mental disorder that results in a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest which may interfere with our daily activities. Medications are often prescribed to patients suffering from depression to control its symptoms, but one should be aware of the probable side effects of such medicines, such as weight loss. Continue reading this article to learn about depression meds that may cause weight loss. Here we will discuss the connection between depression medicines and changes in weight, the procedure involved in this event, and how crucial it is to always take a Specialist Doctor’s help if any concern arises.

Depression Medications and Weight Changes

Changes in your weight are considered a negative fallout when we talk about depression and its associated treatment procedures. Patients suffering from depression may experience either weight gain or weight loss while under the treatment plan. In some patients, gaining extra kilos can be noted due to modifications in their eating habits and loss of interest in carrying out physical activities. On the other hand, some patients may experience weight loss by taking depression meds that cause weight loss or medications that can decrease their interest in eating food (loss of appetite)..

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Antidepressant medications known as SSRIs, such as Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), and Escitalopram (Lexapro), are commonly prescribed by healthcare experts for depression. These medications commonly lead to weight gain, but few cases are detected where patients have reported loss of weight as well.  Please note that the weight loss associated with these antidepressants is typically moderate and tolerable, but individual responses may vary.

The connection between weight loss and SSRIs is still being explored and studied further. Experts believe that these medications may affect the neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to changes in appetite and the metabolism process. In addition to this, these SSRIs are known to lead to certain gastrointestinal (GI) indications like sickness, as a result of which the intake of food decreases, leading to loss of weight.

Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Bupropion, also available as the brand medication Wellbutrin, is classified as an antidepressant that affects the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. Bupropion often results in weight loss or minimal weight gain, and its influence on the patient's weight may be attributed to its consequences on the regulation of appetite and the process of metabolism.

Stimulant Medications

In some cases, stimulant medications like Amphetamines or Methylphenidate may also be prescribed by healthcare experts to patients dealing with depression. These medications are often prescribed to those patients who also have comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) conditions along with depression. It should be noted that these stimulant medications might lead to a loss of appetite, causing the patient to experience weight loss. These medications are always prescribed by certified medical experts and are to be used carefully as per the prescription. Only specific indications patients are prescribed these medicines because of the possibility of mistreatment and other associated side effects.

List of common Depression Medications :

Agomelatine / Valdoxan 25 mg Tablets

Desvenlafaxine succinate ER / Pristiq 25 mg / 50 mg / 100 mg Tablets

Olanzapine + Fluoxetine Hydrochloride / Symbyax 5 mg + 20 mg / 10 mg + 20 mg Tablets

Vilazodone / Viibryd 20 mg / 40 mg Tablets

VortioxetineHydrobromide / Trintellix / Brintellix 5 mg / 10 mg / 20 mg Tablets

Managing Weight Loss and Depression

If any side effects like weight loss or other alarming indications are experienced while undergoing treatment with antidepressant medications, it is recommended to discuss them with your treating healthcare expert. Your treating physician will be the best person to determine the correct form of medication, the dosage schedule, and make required modifications to ensure your overall well-being. This will be done after thoroughly examining your entire health condition and other medication routines.

Here are some ways to keep a check on your weight loss while coping with depression:

Maintain a balanced diet:  Switch to a diet that is packed with nutrients. Add foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and energy to your diet plan. You can make an appointment with a certified and experienced nutritionist who can help you with a proper diet chart, including healthy meals tailored to your requirements.

Engage in regular physical activity:  Regular exercise has several positive effects on a person's mental health and overall well-being. You can add activities of your choice like yoga, swimming, or walking to your daily routine for your well-being.

Practice self-care: Do some activities that help you in lessening stress levels and relax your mind. You can opt for meditation, journaling, reading books, walking in nature. Take good care of your mental and emotional health, as it has a positive effect on overall health.

Seek support:  When you feel the need, consider making an appointment with an expert or joining a support group. This allows you to connect with others who are dealing with similar issues, enabling you to gain knowledge and share experiences. Connecting with knowledgeable individuals and sharing your own experiences can be incredibly beneficial. These experts can offer you proper guidance and compassionate support, which can be invaluable on your journey with depression.