Anti-depressants and weight loss affect people in a very individual way.  It is difficult to give a specific answer as to how an anti-depressant will affect you because each person’s body reacts differently.  Even though results are on an individual basis, some anti-depressant medications are more typically associated with weight gain.

In the United States more than thirty percent of the population suffers from depression.  It is a disease that affects both your mind and your body.  Many people experience weight gain as a result of their severe depression.  This is because they have a decreased desire to exercise, and an increase in appetite.  As a result they feel worse about themselves and their body and fall into a never ending cycle of depression.

One way to treat depression is through anti-depressant medications.  The most common class of anti-depressants prescribed in the United States are the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors.  This class of medications includes Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and more.  While none of these drugs have a guaranteed result of weight loss or gain, Paxil is more commonly believed to cause weight gain.  On the other hand Wellbutrin is more often associated with causing weight loss.

Regardless of your current weight or weight loss goals it’s important to recognize that depression is a serious condition.  If you feel that you may be suffering from depression you should consult your doctor immediately.  Also, if you are already diagnosed with depression and on an anti-depressant medication be sure to consult your doctor before stopping or changing your medication.  When you consult with your doctor be sure to inform him of your concerns about weight gain and inform him of your current weight loss plans.  This way he can be sure to prescribe you a proper anti-depressant, if necessary, and can help to monitor your anti-depressants and weight loss goals.

Also, keep in mind that exercise can have a profound positive impact on depression.  It can help to lift your mood and help you to feel better about yourself, all while helping you to achieve your weight loss goals.  In addition, you should consult with your weight loss program consultant and keep them informed of any medications you are taking.  This will help them to be better equipped to help you achieve your weight loss goals.  To schedule your free consultation please click below or call Becky Wilborn at (212) 759-8118.