Most antidepressant medications cause weight gain as a side effect. However, bupropion, fluoxetine, and duloxetine are antidepressants that can cause decreased appetite and slight weight loss in some people.
Antidepressants are a common form of treatment for depression and anxiety, but some people experience weight gain as a side effect. However, certain antidepressants may lead to weight loss in some individuals.
The serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine (Prozac) and the serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine (Cymbalta) can lead to a decrease in appetite and cause slight weight loss during the first months of treatment. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), which works by blocking norepinephrine and dopamine, may also have this effect.
This article discusses antidepressants that can cause weight loss. It also looks at the benefits and risks of antidepressants for weight loss and consider alternative options.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve antidepressants for weight loss, so doctors do not prescribe them for this use. However, they may consider the potential weight change effects of medications when prescribing them.
People should not take antidepressants for weight loss unless a doctor prescribes them for another condition.
Bupropion, known by its brand names, Aplenzin and Wellbutrin, can cause weight loss in some people.
Bupropion is available as immediate- and extended-release pills, which work by altering chemical levels in the brain. It disrupts the enzymes that regulate the hormones norepinephrine and dopamine.
Bupropion is an atypical form of antidepressant, which means it differs from other types of antidepressants, such as SSRIs.
An older 2016 study found that people who took bupropion lost around 7 pounds (lb) more than those who took other antidepressants over 2 years. However, the researchers only discovered this effect in nonsmokers.
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A 2024 review of 25 studies concluded that bupropion causes a reduction in weight and waist circumference when given alone or in combination with naltrexone.
Learn about the cost of bupropion.
Fluoxetine, commonly known by its brand name, Prozac, is an SSRI that doctors prescribe for major depression that may also help with weight loss.
SSRIs and SNRIs are second-generation antidepressants. They generally have
A 2022 review found that in adults with overweight or obesity, taking 60 milligrams (mg) of fluoxetine daily can lead to an average weight loss of 2.7 kilograms (kg) — equivalent to almost 6 lb — during the first 6 months of treatment. There is no weight loss effect for people taking low dosages for a longer duration.
According to a 2022 study, the way fluoxetine reduces weight is unclear, but it may block hunger signals and increase the amount of energy people use while at rest.
Learn about the side effects of Prozac.
Duloxetine may help with weight loss, but very little research supports this.
Duloxetine is an SNRI known by the brand names Cymbalta and Yentreve. Experts think SNRIs help people with anxiety and depression by increasing serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain, which can improve mood.
One older
Learn more about Cymbalta’s effects on weight.
Antidepressants may cause side effects for some people. The type and severity can depend on age, sex, and other health conditions. The side effects may lessen as the body adjusts to the medication.
The most common side effects include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- weight gain
- diarrhea
- sleepiness
- sexual dysfunction
- headaches
- dry mouth
- sweating
- vision changes
- constipation
- sleeping problems
The following side effects are rare and require immediate medical attention:
- suicidal thoughts
- confusion, agitation, and muscle twitching
- seizure
- irregular heartbeat
- unconsciousness
If someone experiences serious side effects, they should call 911 or visit the emergency room.
If other side effects worsen or cause concern, a person should make an appointment with a doctor.
People under the age of 25 years are most at risk of suicidal thoughts when they first begin taking antidepressants. It may be wise for an individual to tell a friend or family member that they are taking antidepressants so that this loved one can check in from time to time.
Help is out there
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:
- Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Caring counselors are available to listen and provide free and confidential support 24/7.
- Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free and confidential support 24/7.
- Not in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.
- Call 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do so.
If you’re calling on behalf of someone else, stay with them until help arrives. You may remove weapons or substances that can cause harm if you can do so safely.
If you’re not in the same household, stay on the phone with them until help arrives.
People with low or moderate weight do not need to lose weight, and excessive weight loss can be harmful. Following a nutritious, well-balanced diet can help a person maintain a moderate weight.
This involves avoiding or limiting foods high in fat, salt, and sugar, which can increase low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood sugar.
Milkshakes with protein powder can boost calorie intake. Between meals, people can also snack on nuts, peanut butter toast, yogurt, or fruit.
Although most antidepressants can cause weight gain, bupropion, fluoxetine, and duloxetine may cause weight loss in some people. While doctors do not prescribe these medications for weight loss, they may consider this effect when prescribing them to help treat another condition.
People should not take antidepressants specifically to lose weight, as they can cause many side effects. A person wishing to lose weight can try adjusting their diet and increasing physical activity instead.
