Antidepressants are primarily used to treat depression but can also be effective for other mental illnesses such as anxiety and panic attacks. Some of these antidepressants promote weight loss. This may sound surprising considering that they are formulated to treat mental illnesses. However, like any other medication, antidepressant does produce side effects that sometimes manifest in the form of weight loss.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a group of antidepressants that includes well-known drugs such as (Zoloft) Sertraline, Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Celexa (Citalopram).
As far as weight loss associated with Zoloft is concerned, only a small fraction of people have had success with this medication. People who have had the habit of taking heavy meals were able to successfully control their appetite when put on Zoloft.
For the vast majority of people that experience changes in weight when taking Escitalopram (Lexapro) is weight loss. Lexapro and weight loss is often caused by the alteration of taste that can make food unappealing to smell or taste. Beyond the sensory alterations, Lexapro and weight loss can be experienced through reduced appetite. It is very important to ensure that you are getting enough nutrition, which can be difficult with a reduced appetite. People have reported going whole days without eating as they forgot to eat. Discuss this possibility with your doctor and have a plan of attack to make sure that you keep your nutrition and health from deteriorating while you try to balance your brain chemistry.
Celexa is useful against impulsive eating and Prozac (Fluoxetine) users also reported short term weight loss with the weight coming back in the long-term.
From the commonly reported side effects of using SSRI’s, the ones that we are interested in is weight gain or weight loss (as a side note, I don’t really like the fact that they can cause reduced sexual desire or decreased libido).
It’s important to speak with your physician before you attempt any weight loss program, especially if you decide to use depression medications as an alternative method. Your physician can help you keep an eye on the side effects and can help prevent major damage to your body. While it may be tempting to avoid exercise and diet and take an easy approach to weight loss, if you need to lose a significant amount of weight, the best method is to develop good eating habits and manage your weight loss goals.