What Antidepressants Cause Weight Loss?

 FDA-approved antidepressants are often prescribed drugs that are used to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Antidepressants can be useful in treating certain illnesses, but they can also have a number of negative side effects, such as weight loss. I'll explain what antidepressants are, how they affect weight, and which antidepressants are known to contribute to weight gain or reduction in this post. Lastly, I will discuss whether antidepressant prescriptions have ever been given with the express purpose of helping someone lose weight and whether it is safe to avoid antidepressant-induced weight loss. 

Antidepressant That Causes Weight Loss

While most antidepressants are associated with weight gain, a few have been shown to cause weight loss in some people. These include:

• Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Bupropion is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), which means it works by blocking the reuptake of these neurotransmitters in the brain. This can increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which can lead to increased energy levels, improved mood, and decreased appetite.

• Fluoxetine (Prozac): Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means it works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation, appetite, and sleep. Fluoxetine has been shown to cause weight loss in some people, but this effect is usually temporary.

• Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which means it works by increasing the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Duloxetine has been shown to cause weight loss in some people, but this effect is also usually temporary.

It is important to note that not everyone who takes these antidepressants will experience weight loss. In fact, some people may actually gain weight. The effects of antidepressants on weight can vary depending on the individual and the specific medication.

What is the best antidepressant for weight loss?

Study leader David Arterburn,MD Group Health Research Institute said in a group health research news released on on 17th May 2016 that Bupropion is the only antidepressant that tends to be linked with weight loss over 2 years.

Some medications used to treat anxiety including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors(SSRI) and Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors(SNRI) may cause nausea and which causes a loss of appetite that can result in weight loss.

How Antidepressants Cause Weight Loss

There are a few different ways that antidepressants can cause weight loss. One way is by decreasing appetite. Some antidepressants, such as bupropion, can suppress appetite, which can lead to eating less and losing weight.

Another way that antidepressants can cause weight loss is by increasing metabolism. Some antidepressants, such as bupropion, can increase metabolism, which means that the body burns more calories at rest. This can also lead to weight loss.

Concluding Points

In conclusion, while some antidepressants can cause weight loss, this effect is not always predictable or permanent. If you are concerned about weight changes while taking antidepressants, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of your weight changes and discuss other treatment options if necessary.