It is commonly stated that patients return to their previous weight after they stop taking antidepressants, but this assumption is not evidence based. Studies examining weight gain during long-term SSRI treatment have reported inconsistent results. It is noteworthy that animals that received short-term antidepressant treatment with either imipramine or fluoxetine during 7 days of RRS showed behavioral evidence of antidepressant effects. In our practice, we ALWAYS investigate and address the underlying reasons behind mental health struggles. Since Lexapro does not treat the root causes of psychiatric conditions, it can exacerbate the reasons you are feeling unwell and trigger severe symptoms such as mental anguish. Alternatively, Lexapro may inhibit your ability to cry at all—which is very problematic, as crying can be so beneficial for our health. You may find that you cry more often on Lexapro, and may even find yourself crying all the time. Some patients get irritable on Lexapro, and some develop suicidal thoughts. Can antidepressants cause weight gain? Patients had to be on continuous treatment for a minimum of 6 months, with continuous treatment defined as having no breaks in treatment greater than 90 days (Figure 1). A retrospective electronic medical record chart review of the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 22 Veterans Affairs (VA) database from January 1, 2003, until December 31, 2009, was performed after institutional review board approval (VISN 22 covers VA patients from all of Southern California and parts of Nevada). Thus, on a carbohydrate-rich diet (or “chow diet”), the LepTg works independently of 5-HT2C, while on a high-fat diet, the 5-HT2C is needed for attenuation of obesity. Some people have also reported a decreased appetite while taking Lexapro — which may lead to weight loss. It’s also more likely if you take Lexapro with other medications or supplements that raise serotonin levels. Headaches from Lexapro may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Certain people feel nausea, dizziness, or sleep change even on low amounts of medicine. For some people and some diagnoses, 5 mg can bring clear change without ever moving higher. National services such as the NHS dosing guide for escitalopram and the official FDA Lexapro label both describe 10 mg once daily as the usual adult starting dose, with 20 mg as the upper end for many conditions. Association of antidepressant prescription with increase in body mass index (BMI) category. Figure 2 presents adjusted rate ratios according to years of antidepressant treatment. Supplementary table 1 shows the results of a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the effect of excluding person time in which there were no weight records. No similar association was seen in those participants with cancer.Figure 2 presents adjusted rate ratios according to years of antidepressant treatment. We'll cover practical tips to keep a healthy weight while on Lexapro. If you're facing Lexapro weight gain, you're not the only one. Yet, the risk of gaining weight can be a concern. Each antidepressant works differently in the brain, which can impact appetite, energy, and metabolism. Doctors usually start with the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects. However, not all patients respond to dosage changes in the same way. A stronger dose can have a greater effect on appetite, energy levels, and metabolism. Or they may suggest adding a weight-loss medication if it’s appropriate for you. They may want to change your depression medication. If you’ve already started taking an antidepressant and you notice a change in your weight, let your prescriber know. Common questions about escitalopram Studies in women breastfeeding have demonstrated harmful infant effects. Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of escitalopram in the elderly. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Characteristics of participants according to antidepressant prescribing. Antidepressant use was greater in patients with comorbidity and coprescriptions, particularly with diagnoses of stroke and diabetes or coprescribing of antiepileptics or antipsychotics, than in those without. We received input into the report from Patient and Public Involvement representatives who commented on the relevance of the design question, the readability of the report, and the potential impact of the outcomes on their treatment. These mental health gains can support overall daily functioning and relationships. Women, in particular, may be more sensitive to these effects due to monthly hormonal fluctuations. While Lexapro doesn’t directly cause a hormonal disorder, it may disrupt normal hormone balance in some people. Others may gain weight from emotional eating, cravings, or reduced physical activity. Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your prescription. Keep in mind that antidepressants are more likely to reduce suicide risk in the long run by improving mood. There are many types of antidepressants available that work in slightly different ways and have different side effects. Your healthcare professional may recommend some dose changes or different antidepressants. However, stopping antidepressant treatment suddenly or missing several doses can cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Lifestyle Modifications to Support Weight Management Sexual side effects usually pass after the first couple of weeks. Later on, you may gain a little weight as your appetite returns. Escitalopram and citalopram are both medicines used to treat depression. This includes understanding that withdrawal symptoms can be severe, prolonged, and in some cases, may include new-onset symptoms like suicidality or movement disorders. Importantly, these remission rates included individuals across the spectrum of depression severity, including those with severe depression. Their findings revealed that natural recovery from depression is more common than often assumed. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis by Whiteford and colleagues examined remission rates from untreated depression across multiple studies. Alternative treatment options Let your healthcare professional know immediately if you experience either of these symptoms or unusual bleeding or bruising. If these tips don’t help improve your symptoms, talk to your healthcare professional. Lexapro is one of many antidepressants that can cause dry mouth. The present data show that 94% of treated patients had a diagnosis of depression. Patients with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus or coronary heart disease may be more likely to be enrolled in self management interventions that focus on diet, exercise, and weight control and this could modify estimated associations. The direction of any possible bias from incomplete recording of body weight is difficult to anticipate. Roughly 1% of patients using Lexapro for treatment of depression suffer from this side effect. Weight gain and metabolic changes during treatment with antipsychotics and antidepressants. Managing weight gain as a side effect of antidepressant therapy. But if you experience unwanted weight gain while taking an antidepressant, don’t stop taking your antidepressant on your own. Trintellix (vortioxetine) and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) are also considered weight-neutral antidepressants. And the average weight gain while taking antidepressants ranges from about 2 lbs to 7 lbs. Overall, studies show that about 10% to 20% of people taking antidepressants gain weight. It’s possible for most antidepressants to cause weight gain, but some are more likely to cause it than others. Here, we’ll cover what you need to know about antidepressants and weight gain. How can I manage anxiety and depression? Weight loss caused by depression medication What treatments have you tried for depression? I struggle with the weight gain. A recent review of studies using metformin and topiramate has shown more efficacy and fewer side effects with metformin . Side effects of fatigue, cognitive dulling, ataxia, glaucoma, oligohydrosis, and acidosis are reported at doses of 100–400 mg/day. In one case report , topiramate was administered to a 29-year-old male schizophrenic patient who had gained weight due to clozapine. However, weight increased by 1.5 ± 2.7 kg within 14 weeks after the drug was stopped. After treatment, body weight and BMI values were higher in the patient group than in the control group. We were unable to obtain posttreatment data for eight patients because of unresponsiveness to treatment, switching drug or adding another drug to the treatment, or withdrawing from the study of their own desire. Four weeks after initiating treatment, the dose of venlafaxine was increased to 150 mg daily in three patients and that of escitalopram was increased to 20 mg daily in two patients who were non-responsive to previous doses. There are contradictory findings in the studies regarding the effects of antidepressants on insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis. Insulin level and HOMA index had a tendency to decrease with the treatment in patients and were similar to those of healthy controls before the treatment; however, they became lower than those of healthy controls after the treatment. Cassandra Sierra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with over 30 years of experience in mental health and addiction recovery. After all, taking control of your health is incredibly empowering! Whether it’s through dietary adjustments, incorporating some fun exercise routines, or simply consulting your doctor, there are plenty of solutions available! Several clinicians have noted that the combination of phentermine and topiramate can generate substantial weight loss in at least a subset of patients who exhibit little weight loss when treated with phentermine alone. This study demonstrated that one year of treatment with this two-drug combination produced an approximate 4% weight loss beyond that seen with placebo therapy, similar to that seen with other pharmacologic therapies. Sometimes, prior to trying an antiobesity medication, one may choose to switch the current psychotropic medication to one with the same indication but less weight gain potential as noted in the case above. Through formal, manualized cognitive-behavioral therapy patients can achieve satisfaction with body image and acceptance of modest weight loss. Switching antidepressants may help reduce weight gain for some individuals. However, side effects like weight gain, fatigue, or sexual issues may appear over time. If weight gain is a concern, doctors may recommend switching to a medication with a lower risk profile. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). In this article, we'll explore how Lexapro affects your body and discuss nutritional approaches. This way, you can focus on your mental health without any added stress. This fact shows how common this issue is for many on this SSRI medication. Information appearing on Drugsdb.com is of a general nature and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health condition. We classified person time for each calendar year as “exposed” if one antidepressant prescription or more was issued in that year. In a sensitivity analysis, we excluded person time with no weight records, so as to provide a “complete case” analysis. Data collected into CPRD comprise clinical diagnoses; records of clinical measurements, including body mass index (BMI) and body weight records taken during primary care consultations19; prescriptions; results of investigations; and referrals to specialist services. Adjusted rate ratios were estimated from a Poisson model adjusting for age, sex, depression recording, comorbidity, coprescribing of antiepileptics or antipsychotics, deprivation, smoking, and advice on diet. Many people experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most recover over time. Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, belongs to a class of medications called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Combining these medications requires careful medical supervision due to the risk of drug interaction, particularly serotonin syndrome. While this combination can be effective for some patients, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and benefits before starting treatment. Antidepressants have varied effects on weight change. Weight-centric treatment of depression and chronic pain. Weight gain and antidepressants. They can help you safely change your medication if needed to one that’s less likely to affect your weight. If you’ve noticed some weight changes after starting Lexapro, it’s important to be proactive! Medications such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) are often considered because they are less likely to affect weight. This difficulty can arise from various factors, including increased appetite or changes in metabolism caused by the medication. For some individuals, taking Lexapro may make it more challenging to lose weight. Strength training, also known as resistance training, is another essential component of managing Lexapro weight gain. Aim to incorporate minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week to maintain a healthy weight and enhance mental well-being. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week for overall cardiovascular health, which also supports weight management. Read further to explore effective wellness strategies to help you stay healthy and manage weight while taking Lexapro. Keep in mind that everyone responds to medication differently. Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Many people benefit from receiving both. Medications like bupropion are known to carry a lower risk of weight-related side effects. If weight gain is linked to hormonal symptoms, medical testing may help identify the cause. Depression symptoms often include changes in appetite and weight, so it is important to monitor these symptoms during treatment. Depression and anxiety can both lead to weight changes, even without medication. However, caution should still be utilized and breastfed infants whose mothers are taking Lexapro should be monitored as a precaution for increased somnolence, decreased feeding, and weight loss. The acknowledgment of Escitalopram-induced sexual dysfunctions is important, as 41.7% of men and 15.4% of women have been purported to stop taking psychiatric medications as a result of sexual side effects. However, the effects of elevated levels of Serotonin on other hormones (testosterone), peptides (Nitric Oxide), and Neurotransmitters (Dopamine) are thought to play a role as these molecules play an important role in sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm. Unfortunately, this is only temporary and most patients regain the lost weight within 6 months. As previously mentioned, Serotonin does not only regulate physiological processes related to depression and anxiety. California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) is a statewide initiative to improve the quality of life and health outcomes of Medi-Cal members. When our members are healthy, Orange County is healthier. We believe in health equity and access to care for all, and we serve members in the languages they prefer so they are engaged in their health and realize better outcomes. Not pleasant way to spend time. 📌 What side effects (if any) did you experience? And for some, the medication just doesn’t seem to help at all. Together you can decide whether to stay at 5 mg, rise toward 10–20 mg, or try a different treatment mix. For many, 5 mg is a starting step, a tapering step, or a long-term level only after careful testing of higher doses. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of Lexapro weight gain and uncover some clever solutions along the way! Understanding how Lexapro interacts with your body is crucial, especially if you’re committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Our data suggest that antidepressant treatment has a complex effect on BW regulation dependent on environmental factors. (b) Body weight gain was calculated by obtaining the area under the weight curve (AUC, g × day) during the restraining period. Therefore, it is understandable that Escitalopram therapy, which restores and even elevates the levels of Serotonin within our bodies, would lead to suppressed appetite and decreased hunger leading to weight loss. As per the prescribing information for Lexapro provided by the Food and Drug Association (FDA), there are various other Lexapro side effects as reported by patients in premarketing and marketing time periods. Serious concerns involve increased suicidality risk, particularly in young adults and adolescents, plus risks of serotonin syndrome when combined with other medications. Frequently encountered Lexapro side effects and warnings include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation that affect many patients during initial treatment. Which Medications Work Best to Treat Postpartum Depression? Yes, 5 mg of Lexapro can work for some people, but many adults need 10–20 mg daily, so dose changes should come from your doctor. Some medications are safe to combine, while others may cause dangerous drug interactions. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Your doctor will regularly reassess whether continued treatment is appropriate. Many patients take Lexapro and buspirone together safely for extended periods under medical supervision. Lexapro can also trigger rapid cycling of manic/depressive episodes, the development of serotonin syndrome, hyponatremia, and other complications that can be dangerous.Worsening of the symptoms of Major Depression and suicidal thoughts in patients who use Lexapro seem to be more prominent in adolescents (65) they seem to be less prominent. Unfortunately, this is only temporary and most patients regain the lost weight within 6 months.As we have established, Serotonin has definite effects on appetite and hunger regulation. As such, Lexapro weight loss has been reported during the initial therapy in subsets of patients. The three most currently prescribed drugs that are FDA approved to treat obesity are phentermine, sibutramine, and orlistat. The amphetamine products are used on-label for the treatment of sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders. Furthermore, the addition of cognitive therapy to a diet-controlled method produces better results . Cognitive therapy has been helpful in reducing weight for children and adolescents . We need a certain amount of sugar in our diet to provide energy to our cells. But with the inclusion of jello in our diets, that won’t be a problem as we will feel full while keeping the calorie count at a bare minimum. When we begin to eat less, sometimes the hunger feels more intense, and we begin to consume more foods than usual. Although this may be related to the selection of patients and healthy controls, the finding that patients had higher body weight than randomly selected healthy controls remains noteworthy.Similar to our study results, Yosmaoglu et al. (36) found that there was an increase in total cholesterol level and a borderline elevation in HDL levels in their study, in which several antidepressants were used.Some medications are safe to combine, while others may cause dangerous drug interactions.The results of our study emphasize that weight gain independent of treatment occurs in anxiety and depressive disorders.Lexapro, scientifically known as escitalopram, has grown to become one of the widely-prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).Lexapro can lead to weight change, including both weight gain and weight loss, depending on how each person responds to the medication.If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health challenges or substance abuse, reach out to California Prime Recovery today.She failed to respond to an approved SSRI (sertraline) but experienced minimal weight gain. But again, this depends on your age, body type, gender, occupation, and other factors that determine the number of calories you use per day. It provides the necessary elements to make your diet healthy while keeping the calorie count in check. Yes, jello can be a great option to add to your diet if you want to lose weight. Should you add jello to your diet in order to lose weight? Headaches are one of the most commonly-reported side effects in people taking Lexapro for anxiety specifically. And any nausea you experience may improve over time as your body gets used to the medication. Lexapro side effects are usually mild and improve after your body gets used to the medication. It's part of a broader group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In this study, the lack of marked effect on body measurements could be related to the short duration of treatment. Increased appetite and sleep with reduced activity appear to be related to weight gain in patients with depressive disorders. Lifestyle modifications owing to the disease and disease symptoms such as altered appetite, sleep, and physical activity may play a role in weight gain (8). It is known that patients with severe psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder gain weight, and this is a risk factor that affects mortality and morbidity (1). In some studies, more than half of people who took Lexapro reported an increase in body weight. Your health insurance company will only pay for services that it determines to be “reasonable and necessary.” The treatment center will make every effort to have all services preauthorized by your health insurance company. Furthermore, patients should be counseled not to use Escitalopram concomitantly with Aspirin, NSAIDs, or other medication (warfarin) with effects on coagulation. Therefore, before starting treatment, all patients with episodes of major depression should be screened for Bipolar disorder. However, it is unknown whether these symptoms are caused by the toxic effects of SSRIs on the newborn’s health or are related to SSRI withdrawal syndrome. Contact Clinic Les Alpes today to learn how our specialized programs can support your journey to better mental health. Clinic Les Alpes offers the expert care, supportive environment, and comprehensive treatment approach you need to achieve lasting wellness. Report any unusual symptoms immediately, attend all follow-up appointments, and never adjust your dosages without professional guidance. Managing Lexapro weight gain is achievable with regular exercise, mindful eating, hydration, and adequate sleep. Additionally, chronic stress can lead to emotional eating and weight gain. Sleep and stress management are often overlooked but are critical components of managing Lexapro weight gain. A study in Clinical medicine found that patients on SSRIs may experience changes in appetite regulation, leading to increased caloric intake (Ruban et al., 2019). SSRIs are called selective because they mainly affect serotonin, not other neurotransmitters. Blocking reuptake makes more serotonin available to help pass messages between brain cells. After carrying a signal between brain cells, serotonin usually is taken back into those cells, a process called reuptake. Discover how SSRIs improve mood and what side effects they may cause. To evaluate heterogeneity by both antidepressant class and overall we conducted random effects meta-analyses.Ensure you are eating a healthy, balanced diet, and that a minimum of 50% of your caloric intake is attributable to carbohydrate dense foods.Brisk walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming can help counteract Lexapro weight gain.Six weight-loss drugs have been approved by the U.S.Her depression resolved and she continued to lose weight to her baseline level.They are relatively safe, and they typically cause fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants do.Many types of antidepressants are available, including those below.It is recommended to consult a doctor about weight gain on lexapro.The CPRD is one of the world’s largest databases of primary care electronic health records, with participation of about 7% of UK general practices and with ongoing collection of anonymised data from 1990. For many people, acute symptoms resolve within weeks to months. When someone reduces or stops Lexapro after long-term use, the neuroadaptations that developed during treatment create a mismatch between what the brain expects and what it receives. The duration of withdrawal symptoms isn't determined by the drug's half-life, but rather by how long it takes for these neurobiological adaptations to resolve. Research has found alterations to the serotonin system that continue after SSRI cessation, including lowered serotonin levels in key brain regions, reduced serotonin transporter binding, and decreased receptor expression. This finding demonstrates that the brain's adaptation to antidepressants can be remarkably long-lasting. What’s clear is that Lexapro’s effects on weight are varied and can be influenced by a myriad of factors. It’s important to consider individual variations in responses to the drug, potential interactions with other medications, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Addressing the bigger question—whether Lexapro-induced weight loss is a direct result or a byproduct of other factors—the evidence leans towards a combination of both. But if it doesn't relieve your symptoms or it causes side effects that bother you, you may need to try another. Antidepressants are a popular treatment choice for depression. It may take several weeks or more before an antidepressant is fully effective and for early side effects to ease up. For example, people with a history of bipolar disorder typically aren't given SSRIs for depression. For example, serotonin syndrome is more likely to occur with higher Lexapro dosages.Moreover, it was shown that chronic stress results in decreased insulin sensitivity without causing weight gain (17).Stay alert to your body’s responses, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment.Genetic, lifestyle-related factors, limited access to good quality physical care, the disease itself, and psycho-pharmacotherapy play a role in the increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (1).By clicking “Submit,” you certify that you have provided your legal name and phone number, agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy, and authorise Paid Advertiser to contact you.Fluvoxamine 5, 52 has two studies showing no weight gain and no weight loss.Common protracted symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, emotional blunting, anxiety, depression, sensory symptoms, and in some cases, new-onset symptoms that weren't present during acute withdrawal.When you boost serotonin to improve mood, it can also impact appetite regulation. Keep in mind that depression that's not treated is a more concerning risk of suicide. Anyone taking an antidepressant should be watched closely for worsening depression or unusual behavior. In some cases, children, teenagers and young adults under 25 may have an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking antidepressants. But the FDA requires that all antidepressants carry boxed warnings, the strictest warnings for prescriptions. Both Lexapro and buspirone affect serotonin activity, though in different ways. However, this combination requires careful monitoring due to potential drug interaction risks. Buspar, the brand name for buspirone, offers a different approach to treating anxiety disorders. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about taking Lexapro and buspirone together, helping you make informed decisions about your mental health condition. Each type of antidepressant affects these neurotransmitters in slightly different ways. Treatments for depression I refuse to take any of the GPL1 because I take enough medications. Moved to lexapro, and dont react that way. I had several issues with zoloft, making me tired an wall asleep al the time. Partly explaining that sometimes those meds can cause sleep disturbances. Peripheral effects of Serotonin on the gastrointestinal tract could explain why patients could experience some weight gain.There was an increase in weight, body mass index, and waist circumference after treatment in patients with depression; however, there was no change in patients with anxiety.Hyponatremia (low sodium levels) isn’t a common Lexapro side effect.Keep in mind that depression that's not treated is a more concerning risk of suicide.Waist circumference was measured at the first margin level of the iliac crest after normal breathing in all patients and healthy controls.They do not account for how nutrition, lifestyle, environment, and unhealed trauma contribute to depression, anxiety, and all other psychiatric labels and psychological symptoms.Your personal health history and any existing conditions should guide which medicine is a better fit.If you’re having a hard time sleeping while taking Lexapro, try taking your daily dose in the morning to see if that helps. For some individuals, weight changes stabilize over time as their body adjusts to the medication. If you're concerned about weight gain while taking Lexapro, there are several strategies you can use to maintain a healthy weight without compromising your mental health treatment. While the connection between Lexapro and weight changes is a subject of interest, it is important to remember that Lexapro primarily serves as a mental health treatment and not a weight loss solution. Home How can I lose weight while on antidepressants? Antidepressants, including escitalopram, are just one of several approaches to treating depression or anxiety. But sometimes people respond better to one antidepressant than to another. Escitalopram is one of a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Lexapro affects serotonin levels and influence appetite and metabolism which make you gain weight. In some people, depression is so severe that a hospital stay is needed. Smartphones and tablets that offer mobile health apps, such as support and general education about depression, are not a substitute for seeing your doctor or therapist. Formats for depression therapy as an alternative to face-to-face office sessions are available and may be an effective option for some people. Many types of antidepressants are available, including those below. Nausea is one of the most common Lexapro side effects. But more serious Lexapro side effects should be addressed right away. If you’re prescribed Lexapro, there are possible side effects to keep in mind. Twenty percent of patients on lithium gained 10 kg or more in one study and a 6.3 kg weight gain in a second . As with the antipsychotics and antidepressants, weight gain is a common side effect. However, the incidence of treatment-emergent abnormal weight gain (FDA definition suggests greater than or equal to a 7% increase in weight from baseline) was similar between drugs and was significantly greater for both duloxetine and escitalopram compared with placebo. Trazodone studies show 0.5 to 1.1 kg weight gain over time 8, 44, while five percent of baseline weight loss or 3–4.4 kg of weight loss has been reported with bupropion 45–47. Quetiapine (regular release and extended release) also has been implicated in causing a more remarkable weight gain of 4.1 to 5.6 kg 33, 34. With the introduction of the newer, atypical second generation antipsychotics (SGAs), the potential to cause remarkable weight gain has been recognized. The above case is a typical and common example of iatrogenically induced weight gain. You may be curious about alternatives to Lexapro, but you are worried that taking another antidepressant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is just going to be similar to taking Lexapro—or maybe even worse. If your health insurance company determines that a particular service is not reasonable and necessary, or that a particular service is not covered under your plan, your insurer will deny payment for that service and it will become your responsibility. Payment of benefits are subject to all terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions of the member’s contract at time of service. A treatment center will attempt to verify your health insurance benefits and/or necessary authorizations on your behalf. Some studies suggest that antidepressant use increases the risk for development of diabetes mellitus (24,26), whereas some other studies suggest positive (28,30) or no effects (27). There are contradictory results in studies that investigated the effects of antidepressants on insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis. In our study, it was observed that total cholesterol and HDL levels increased in the escitalopram group, whereas no alteration was observed in the other drug groups. In other words, only HDL levels appeared to increase with antidepressant treatment. Some previous studies reported that cholesterol levels increased, whereas HDL cholesterol levels decreased after antidepressant treatment (34,36). In conclusion, the relationship between Lexapro and weight changes is complex and may vary among individuals. As we conclude our exploration into the correlation between Lexapro and weight fluctuations, it is crucial to provide guidance for potential Lexapro users. The emphasis should always be on its primary therapeutic benefits, with weight changes, if any, being a secondary consideration. In a broader view, recurring feedback from numerous users has emphasized the unpredictable nature of weight changes on Lexapro. Managing mental health is key to maintaining a stable and healthy weight. Some people lose weight due to loss of appetite, fatigue, or restlessness. Others, like bupropion, are less likely to affect weight or may even promote weight loss. Water weight usually fluctuates and may improve with changes in diet or hydration. There is evidence suggesting that the psychiatric disorder itself and/or psychotropic drug use have some effects on the glucose–insulin system. In this method, HOMA-IR index is calculated by using fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels. IR is determined using the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR) index that was first described by Mathews et al. (14). Diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance (IR), and hyperglycemia are the most commonly observed metabolic risk factors in the psychiatric population. In addition, drugs used for treating psychiatric disorders may also play a role in the etiology of obesity in such patients (9). This population based cohort study reports data for participants registered in primary care who had three or more measurements for body mass index (BMI), with sampling stratified by BMI category. Scatter plot of adjusted rate ratios for ≥5% weight gain by number of prescriptions. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted (fig 3) to evaluate heterogeneity within and between antidepressant classes. Adjusted for age, sex, depression recording, comorbidity, coprescribing of antiepileptics or antipsychotics, deprivation, smoking, and advice on diet. In the immediate post-stress period, stressed and non-stressed animals fed with high-fat diet had similar absolute caloric intake.We carried out a population based cohort study in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD).Instead of cutting out entire food groups, focus on incorporating nutrient-dense options into your diet.Grab a recipe, read an article, and start your journey to a longer, healthier life with us today.Those taking higher doses or using the medication long-term also face increased risk.In rare cases, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor Lexapro (escitalopram) can cause life-threatening emergencies.Each antidepressant works differently in the brain, which can impact appetite, energy, and metabolism.Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur.Lexapro can be a helpful part of treatment for depression or anxiety, yet dose changes always need medical guidance. According to Cleveland Clinic, your body continues to burn calories at a higher rate well after your workout is over. Ask your doctor how many calories you should have in a day, and divide that into several small meals and snacks spaced out so your body has a steady fuel supply. That’s why severely restricting your food intake can backfire when it comes to losing weight. It's crucial to follow your doctor’s advice for tapering off slowly to help your body adjust to the change. Doctors don’t know exactly why that is, but researchers say SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in your brain — a chemical messenger that plays a role in appetite and metabolism. The study included patients with depression, generalized anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, and adjustment disorder with anxious mood. However, different antidepressants may have different effects on body measurements. However, increased waist circumference values in the escitalopram group may support the hypothesis of the increasing effect of antidepressants on body measurements. In other words, depressive symptoms can be related to weight gain in an individual without depression at the diagnostic level. Finally, a short-term study using aripiprazole showed a limited, 0.5–0.9 kg weight gain as compared to placebo . Paliperidone was approved a few years back, and both short- and long-term (52 weeks) studies have shown no significant metabolic side effects including weight gain 15, 16. Asenapine causes up to 0.9 kg weight gain in the first three weeks of treatment and its FDA Package Insert discusses a 52-week regulatory trial causing negligible weight gain over time, suggesting it may also be less metabolically problematic . Patients who experience increased appetite or cravings while on Lexapro are also at higher risk. Women may experience weight changes more often due to hormonal factors. People with a slower metabolism or sedentary lifestyle may be more likely to gain weight on Lexapro. Weight gain and water retention are different side effects that can both occur while taking Lexapro. Tracking changes early can help manage potential side effects before they progress. Get the latest health tips and articles delivered directly to your inbox. Discover the unique ways Zoloft affects women, from menstrual changes to sexual side effects and withdrawal considerations. Discover what clinical studies show about Prozac and weight changes. Learn about risks, mechanisms, and practical solutions for managing this rare side effect. Lexapro helps relieve symptoms such as persistent sadness, low energy, restlessness, and excessive worry. Lexapro is approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and adolescents. Lexapro achieves this by blocking the serotonin transporter, which increases serotonin availability in the brain and can also affect metabolism and appetite. Do not start taking escitalopram during the 14 days after you stop a MAO inhibitor. Do not take escitalopram with a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (eg, isocarboxazid Marplan®, linezolid (Zyvox®), methylene blue injection, phenelzine Nardil®, selegiline Eldepryl®, tranylcypromine Parnate®). Blood tests may be needed to check for any unwanted effects. It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to allow for changes in your dose and to help reduce any side effects. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use. Widespread utilisation of antidepressants may be contributing to long term increased risk of weight gain at population level. A combination of diet, exercise, and medications would be the ideal approach for combating the weight gain seen in the mentally ill population, but we often find these patients unable to comply with rigorous diet and exercise regimens due to their psychiatric symptoms. The prevalence of weight gain due to antidepressants such as imipramine (causing a 3-4 kg weight gain) is more chronic and more common, yet underrecognized as depression and anxiety are more prevalent diagnostically and epidemiologically as compared to psychotic disorders . In conclusion, this study shows that there is weight gain independent of the treatment in disorders that present with anxiety and depressive symptoms. One of the major results of this study is that there is no change in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference values in patients who received antidepressant treatment after 8 weeks. They can also guide you on medical weight loss programs. The amount of weight gain varies a lot from person to person. About half of those taking Lexapro might gain 7% or more of their body weight. The exact reason for weight gain with Lexapro isn't clear. Another study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology indicated that the risk of weight gain increases over time, with some patients experiencing a gain of 5-10% of their body weight (Gafoor et al., 2018). Furthermore, peripheral rather than central effects of elevated serotonin levels in the body could better explain why certain patients experience weight gain with continued SSRI therapy. However, most antidepressants have numerous documented adverse events, including cardiometabolic effects and weight gain, which are major public health concerns. Our study adds to previous data by providing longer follow-up (up to 10 years) of antidepressant treatment, showing that the risk of weight gain is increased for at least the first five years of treatment. Lexapro can alter the way your body burns calories, making it easier to pack on those extra pounds. It’s more common than you might think, and sometimes it can feel a bit overwhelming. So, if you’re on Lexapro and finding it hard to manage your weight, you’re definitely not alone. When you boost serotonin to improve mood, it can also impact appetite regulation. But be sure to talk to your prescriber first since these OTC medications aren’t safe for everyone to take. In the meantime, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) may help relieve headache pain. But keep in mind that headaches can also be a symptom of anxiety itself. They may recommend lowering your dosage or trying another antidepressant. If these tips don’t work, you can try an OTC nausea medication like Bonine (meclizine). Periods of disease exacerbation were accepted as episodes for patients with chronic disorders. Because of the limited number of subjects in the subgroups, the non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used to compare changes with treatment in different drug and diagnosis groups. To compare pre- and posttreatment data, paired samples t-test was used for data with normal distribution, whereas the Wilcoxon test was used for data with skewed distribution. Weight Gain due to Psychotropics Five milligrams does change serotonin activity, but many adults need at least 10 mg a day for a strong effect on depression or generalized anxiety disorder. Older adults and people with several health conditions often have slower drug clearance and more interactions, so prescribers sometimes keep them on 5 mg if symptom control looks stable. Another group includes people whose symptoms are already partly controlled through therapy, daily routines, or a different antidepressant in the past. Some patients report minor weight changes with Lexapro, though buspirone typically doesn’t cause weight gain. You may notice that you sleep better and get on with people more easily because you're less anxious. Antidepressants like escitalopram help to improve or lift your mood so you feel better. With personalized advice, we are changing the face of healthcare delivery across India. Gothelf et al. studied weight gain mechanisms and energy balance in olanzapine-treated adolescent male patients and found that an increase in body mass index was due to an increase in calorie intake, but also revealed effects on the resting energy expenditure or slowing of metabolism. Currently prescribed psychotropics (antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers) may cause 2–17 kg of weight gain over the course of clinical treatment 3–6. Among these, body weight, BMI, and waist circumference values increased with treatment in patients with depression. Given that increased waist circumference is more important than weight gain as a risk factor, it would be reasonable to suggest that antidepressants can contribute to an increased metabolic risk. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss your weight changes and overall well-being. So, sometimes, when you take SSRIs like Lexapro, you feel better. If you smoke, consider working with your healthcare provider on a smoking cessation plan. Both alcohol and nicotine can interfere with your weight management efforts and potentially interact with Lexapro. Once you identify these patterns, you can learn ways to counter or mitigate their effects. There are many types of antidepressants available that work in slightly different ways and have different side effects.Clearly the new, second generation antipsychotics have gathered much press and literature about thier profound effects on weight gain and the development of metabolic disorders.Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients.Being in direct sunlight in the morning and eating your last meal at least a few hours before bedtime can also help.In the analysis phase we computed additional BMI values from recorded weight and height, permitting a greater number of participants to be represented in some BMI categories.Partly explaining that sometimes those meds can cause sleep disturbances.Since Lexapro does not treat the root causes of psychiatric conditions, it can exacerbate the reasons you are feeling unwell and trigger severe symptoms such as mental anguish.Furthermore, patients should be counseled not to use Escitalopram concomitantly with Aspirin, NSAIDs, or other medication (warfarin) with effects on coagulation.A systematic review analysed short term studies and estimated weight increases over eight months’ follow-up.14 Another study evaluated weight gain up to two years using electronic health records,15 with estimates consistent with a 2.1 kg weight gain with fluoxetine treatment and about a 4.8 kg increase with setraline.According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, SSRIs can lead to weight gain in some patients, particularly with long-term use (Fava et al., 2014). Diet, exercise, sunlight, and supplements can help with the side effects of Lexapro. You are as unique as your fingerprint, and your body’s reaction to Lexapro is, too. Managing Lexapro side effects requires a personalized approach. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include high fever, muscle stiffness, rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure, confusion, agitation, hallucination, and seizure. You should not “just put up with” antidepressant induced sexual dysfunction. Then, regularly monitor if these methods are effective in your treatment or might require more help from your practitioner. Meditation - Meditation has the calming effect that the body needs while taking Lexapro. A balanced diet can include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein combinations. Managing Lexapro weight gain can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right strategies in place, you can keep those extra pounds at bay! Recognizing these common causes of weight gain with Lexapro usage can help demystify the issue and empower you to make informed decisions moving forward. With the right medication, many people start to feel better and may indulge in foods they once avoided or become less active. Persistent depressive disorder (formerly known as Chronic Depression) Fluvoxamine and Viibryd (vilazodone) aren’t likely to affect your weight with short or long-term use. Children taking Zoloft are more likely to experience weight loss. Taking Zoloft short-term isn’t likely to affect your weight. Keep in mind that just because weight gain is possible with Zoloft doesn’t mean it will happen to everyone who takes it. Phentermine-topiramate is a combination of a weight-loss drug called phentermine and an anticonvulsant called topiramate. Many people gain back some of the weight they lost when they stop taking weight-loss drugs. That's why it's important to ask your health care provider about all treatment choices. Gaining weight on lexapro is a common side effect people experience. So let's find out the effects of Lexapro on weight gain. Lexapro, also known as escitalopram, is widely prescribed for depression and anxiety. Trials that led to approval of escitalopram for these diagnoses usually relied on 10–20 mg doses, not 5 mg alone. This taper needs to move slowly, with close watching for return of symptoms, sleep change, or renewed thoughts of self harm. After a period on 10–20 mg with good stability, a prescriber may sometimes taper down to 5 mg to see whether the person can keep gains on less medicine. For them, starting and staying at 5 mg can strike a better balance between symptom relief and unwanted effects. And some also increase levels of serotonin in the body, which can make you want to eat more than usual. Other antidepressants block a certain type of serotonin receptor that controls how much you eat. Viibryd (vilazodone) is another weight-neutral antidepressant that works similarly to SSRIs in the body. Prozac (fluoxetine) is an SSRI that typically causes weight loss with short-term use (less than 6 months). Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant that’s least likely to cause weight gain. Table 1 presents the characteristics of participants at their entry to the study according to antidepressant prescribing status. No patients were involved in setting the research question or the outcome measures, nor were they involved in developing plans for design or implementation of the study. To evaluate heterogeneity by both antidepressant class and overall we conducted random effects meta-analyses. Forest plots present measures of association for subgroups and individual antidepressants and for antidepressant classes. The final fully adjusted model adjusted for sex, initial BMI category, age, age2, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, depression, smoking status, coprescribing of antiepileptics or antipsychotics, diet advice, year, region of residence, and fifth of deprivation. So it’s often a preferred option for those looking to avoid weight gain from their depression medication. The table below summarizes common antidepressants and their usual effect on body weight. It’s more likely to cause weight loss with short-term use, but can lead to weight gain with long-term use. Paxil (paroxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that’s connected to weight gain both short-term and long-term. As a class, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are most likely to cause weight gain.