Q: what would be the best med for anxiety and fatigue that will not cause weight gain?
Hi Airforcemom,
Antidepressants are associated with both weight gain and weight loss. For some people they increase the rate of metabolism and in others they decrease it without a change in daily caloric intake. Another way antidepressants can cause weight gain is by causing hormonal changes that increase your appetite. Antianxiety medications (benzodiazepines) are associated with daytime drowsiness and the stimulation of appetite.
The best thing you can do is consult with both a nutritionist and a Psychiatrist. A nutritionist might be able to counsel you about how to deal with a change in metabolism or appetite. Share your concerns with your Psychiatrist so that you can together keep a close watch on whether the medication is affecting your weight.
Regards,
Dr. Jennifer Fee
*Dr. Fee is a Psychologist and does not prescribe medication. The comments in this post are not meant to diagnose or treat any mental/medical disorder. They are merely to give you more information so that you can have an informed conversation with your physician.
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