{"id":58537,"date":"2023-05-17T11:43:21","date_gmt":"2023-05-17T15:43:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=58537"},"modified":"2025-10-17T17:07:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-17T21:07:00","slug":"which-antidepressants-cause-weight-loss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/which-antidepressants-cause-weight-loss\/","title":{"rendered":"Which antidepressants cause weight loss?"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to managing depression, finding the right antidepressant can be a complex process. People may experience depression symptom changes and medication side effects in different ways. One particularly sensitive side effect is weight change while taking antidepressants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Although <\/span>weight gain is common<\/span><\/a> with many types of antidepressants, there are some options available that have been shown to be less likely to cause this outcome. Generally speaking, older antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are most notorious for causing weight gain. Some of the newer antidepressants that work through serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine modulation are known to have a lower risk of weight gain and may even contribute to weight loss. A few of the options tied to weight loss include Wellbutrin (bupropion), Prozac (fluoxetine), and Effexor (venlafaxine),\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As with all medications, it\u2019s important to consult a healthcare provider to find the most appropriate option for your specific needs and concerns. Continue reading to explore some antidepressant options that may contribute to weight loss.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can antidepressants cause weight loss?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Serotonin is a chemical or neurotransmitter that can play a role in <\/span>regulating metabolism<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>appetite control<\/span><\/a> in addition to mood, sleep, and other bodily functions. Some of the most widely used antidepressants, <\/span>selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)<\/span><\/a>, affect how serotonin is transported in the brain. This can affect both short-term and long-term weight changes that are different for every person.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While many antidepressants affect serotonin levels, others may work through neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Effects on these pathways may cause weight loss instead of weight gain. For example, although the way in which bupropion causes weight loss is not fully understood, its effects on <\/span>dopamine and norepinephrine<\/span><\/a> may play a role in promoting weight loss. It is important to remember that other factors such as lifestyle, diet, and exercise can influence weight management while taking antidepressant medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Which antidepressants cause weight loss?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Certain antidepressants from various drug classes have been shown to potentially cause weight loss. However, weight loss associated with these medications may be a short-term effect and could change with long-term use.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Prozac (fluoxetine)<\/span><\/h3>\n

Fluoxetine<\/span><\/a> is an SSRI that has been linked to weight loss. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which may help improve mood and regulate appetite, leading to weight loss. Studies have shown that fluoxetine may reduce body weight by <\/span>around three kilograms<\/span><\/a> when used <\/span>off-label<\/span><\/a> in people who are overweight or obese. Common dosages of fluoxetine range from 20 to 80 mg per day, depending on the severity of depression and the patient’s response to treatment. Weight loss may be more significant at higher doses of fluoxetine, but adverse events are more likely at these doses as well. These include dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, or nausea.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prozac coupons<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Related: <\/b>Prozac side effects<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Wellbutrin (bupropion)<\/span><\/h3>\n

Bupropion<\/span><\/a> is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), which is another type of antidepressant medication that may be linked to weight loss. Bupropion works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It has the most studies <\/span>connecting it to weight loss<\/span><\/a> among antidepressants. Common <\/span>dosages of bupropion<\/span><\/a> range from 150 to 450 mg per day, depending on the specific formulation and the person\u2019s overall condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wellbutrin coupon<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Related: <\/b>Wellbutrin for weight loss<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Effexor XR (venlafaxine)<\/span><\/h3>\n

Venlafaxine<\/span><\/a> is a <\/span>serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)<\/span><\/a> that has been associated with weight loss in some cases. It works by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. The <\/span>weight-loss effects of venlafaxine<\/span><\/a> generally occur when first starting treatment, and weight gain may occur with long-term treatment. Common doses of venlafaxine range from 37.5 to 225 mg per day, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s response to treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Effexor XR coupons<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Cymbalta (duloxetine)<\/span><\/h3>\n

Duloxetine<\/span><\/a> is another SNRI that has been linked to both weight loss and weight gain in individuals. Similar to venlafaxine, it works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Studies have shown that duloxetine may cause weight loss within the first <\/span>eight to nine weeks of treatment<\/span><\/a>. However, people on long-term treatment with duloxetine for at least a year may experience weight gain. <\/span>Common doses of duloxetine range from 30 to 120 mg per day<\/span><\/a>, depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s response to therapy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cymbalta coupons<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Related: <\/b>Cymbalta side effects<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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Antidepressants for weight loss<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n

Drug name<\/b><\/td>\nDrug class<\/b><\/td>\nSavings options<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Prozac<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

(<\/span>fluoxetine<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\n

SSRI<\/span><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wellbutrin XL<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

(<\/span>bupropion ER<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\n

NDRI<\/span><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Effexor XR<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

(<\/span>venlafaxine ER<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\n

SNRI<\/span><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cymbalta<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

(<\/span>duloxetine<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/td>\n

SNRI<\/span><\/td>\nSee latest prices<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The effects of these prescription medications on weight loss can vary. You should discuss possible side effects, appropriate dosages, and other concerns with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you take antidepressants for weight loss?<\/span><\/h2>\n

While some antidepressants have been linked to weight loss, they are only FDA approved for the treatment of <\/span>major depressive disorder<\/span><\/a> and other mental health disorders at this time. Using antidepressants solely for weight loss purposes is not recommended, as they may not be appropriate for every individual and can have potential side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re interested in weight-loss medications, you should consult your primary care provider or a specialist to determine the best option for you. If you\u2019re struggling with symptoms of depression and are also concerned about weight gain as a side effect, a healthcare provider may recommend an antidepressant that has a low risk of weight gain. Healthcare providers may also recommend other weight-loss methods, such as lifestyle changes or supervised weight-loss programs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. You should not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without discussing it with your healthcare provider first.<\/span><\/p>\n

Risks of using antidepressants to lose weight<\/span><\/h2>\n

While weight loss may be a potential side effect of some antidepressants, other possible risks and side effects can also develop while using these medications. For example, one common side effect of certain antidepressants is sexual dysfunction, which can occur as a decrease in libido, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, or issues with reaching orgasm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Antidepressants can also lead to changes in blood pressure, either high or low, depending on the individual and the medication. People with an underlying condition that affects their blood pressure may need to be cautious and closely monitored when starting a new antidepressant.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other potential <\/span>side effects of antidepressants<\/span><\/a> can include:<\/span><\/p>\n