View Full Version : Anitdepressants and weight loss
sweetsarahpea
Nov 11, 2007, 05:31 PM
Hello there. I'm going to the dr. about my depression. I would like to know if there are any AD's out there that help with weight loss as well as depression. I'm scared of taking AD's because I've heard that the most common side effect is weight gain. I can not afford to gain any more weight. I weigh 220 as it is. Can anyone help me?
hev53
Nov 12, 2007, 01:12 PM
Fluoxitine (prozac) has the side effect of weight loss. It is actually used in the treatment of bulimia, however I would discuss all this with your GP first. He may be able to help you in many other ways i.e. counselling and dietry advice.
Hope this helps. Perhaps your depression may be the cause of your weight gain? Some people comfort eat.
peggyhill
Nov 12, 2007, 01:43 PM
I agree that you should talk to your doctor about it. There are a lot of different medicines out there. The good thing is that people are becoming more and more informed about depression and the different ways to treat it. I recommend that you make an appointment with your doctor to discuss weight loss. If your medication is prescribed by a different person than your regular doctor, make sure he/she knows what you are taking and how much, at what times, etc. Once you make sure that you are healthy enough to exercise, you can discuss nutrition and exercise. Make sure you are eating three meals a day. Skipping meals will actually make it harder to lose weight. Make sure you are getting enough liquids, eating balanced meals, and getting at least a 1/2 hr. of exercise a day. I've lost some weight just by taking a 1mile walk every day before I go to work. I was shocked at how much I lost by making such a little change. Just try to be healthy in every area of your life. Focus on health, not weight. Focusing on weight/pants size will just make you more stressed out. Discuss the side effects of medicines with your doctor before you start taking them. Then, you will know what to expect, and your doctor will have a better idea of the right medicine for you. If the doctor doesn't want to take the time to discuss side effects, etc. find a new one. But, most doctors will be glad to address your concerns. There are also support groups for people suffering from depression. It can be helpful to talk to people with the same problem, as they can tell you what has worked for them and also give you an idea of what you may feel like on some medication. Everyone is different. Not everyone will gain weight on antidepressents. The most important thing is to treat your depression. Once you are feeling better mentally, you will be more confident and feel better physically. Good luck!
KBC
Nov 13, 2007, 05:35 AM
Keep the open minded approach when you go to a Dr. for meds.
They will work with you, not make you work at accepting them, remember, you are the one who has to live in your skin, not them.If a medication is not something you want, work with them as to their approach to weight gain and the necessity to take anti-depressants.
I have replaced psych. Dr's for not being able to agree with my needs,WE are in control of the outcome,they are in control of the medications, Don't settle for less than what your worth.
Ken
mepk5
Jul 17, 2008, 04:15 PM
Prozac made me gain at least 15 lbs!! & I'm having a hard time trying to lose
Choux
Jul 19, 2008, 01:08 PM
The best treatment for non-psychotic depression is talk therapy and *exercise*. Add exercise to your daily routine, starting with what you can handle like a 1 mile walk, and in a year, you should be able to do vigorous exercise and will have lost weight. Exercise produces endorphins, natural body chemicals that produce a feeling of well-being.
Good amounts of exercise are an appetite suppressant, too. :) Guaranteed.
mepk5
Jul 19, 2008, 08:33 PM
Thanks but a year? I'm too impatient, I am working out cardio 50 minutes+ weights.
I saw a slight difference when I kicked back form 20 mg to 10 mg. you are right thanks
I'll stay at gym. I do feel better afterwards