I started taking Paxil in March 2008 weighing in at 110 lbs.Its now November and I weigh 150 lbs.The Dr told me that my weight gain was caused by the Paxil and switched me to Prozac.Will prozac cause me to gain weight also?My lifestyle has not changed at all from March until now.I eat no more than usual.I actually stopped drinking soda and stopped eating sweets.Any information on this would greatly be appreciated.Any I also need information on losing this weight.I know exercise and lots of water but what helps to lose this ugly weight, fast?
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Q: Does Prozac cause weight gain?
Answers (5)
11/19/08 8:46pm
Hi Krystal:
Paxil and Prozac are in the same class of antidepressants, SSRI's. Unfortunately, ALL antidepressants have weight changes listed as a possible side effect. This can mean weight gain or loss, but the most common effect we see in patients with Prozac and Paxil is weight gain.
The gain isn't necessarily due to the antidepressant, but more often than not, it is, assuming your doctor has ruled out thyroid problems, and other metabolic issues that can affect your weight.
Best of luck,
Dr. Diana Walcutt
*Dr. Walcutt is a Psychologist. Dr. Walcutt's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.
11/11/08 5:32pm
I have been told it causes the opposite, weight loss instead of weight gain. I too take Prozac and Welbutrin and have gained 40 pds. in a year. I know my depression contributes to some of it but not all......I am interested in what others have to say.
11/20/08 10:04am
It is individual. I gained weight on Prozac but not on Paxil. The only way to know is to monitor along with your doctor. Eventually you should find a medication that works for you without the side effects that you can't tolerate. All meds have side effects, it all depends on what ones you can live with.
6/17/09 10:30am
The first time I took prozak, I had a dramatic weight loss. I lost 20 pounds in a matter of a few weeks. The next time I took it many years later (and hoping for weight loss), I gained weight.
10/13/10 8:55pm
Like Gary, when I took Prozac I lost about 20 pounds very quickly...and I was already small to begin with. Best wishes to you as you try to find a med that is effective w/o unwanted side effects.
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I've been on Wellbutrin 300-450 for yrs..no weight gain..lately getting depressed due to life and work changes..Dr put me on 300 Wellbutrin and 20mg prozac
I DONT WANT TO GAIN WEIGHT..WILL DEPRESS ME MORE!!!
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