SSRIs and Weight Loss
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are medications prescribed to treat depression and other mental conditions. They work by preventing the reuptake of serotonin---a neurotransmitter responsible for mood, appetite and other mental states--resulting in increased levels of the neurotransmitter in the brain. SSRIs can sometimes cause weight loss due to their direct effects on serotonin.
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Atypical Depression
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Atypical depression is one subtype of the disorder that involves overeating, oversleeping and general feelings of malaise. According to WebMd.com, atypical depression is likely under-diagnosed and can be more difficult to treat than other forms of the illness.
Atypical depression differs from other forms of the disorder in a few important ways. While major depression is known for causing loss of appetite, atypical depression often causes increased appetite and overeating, which can lead to weight gain. In people with atypical depression, SSRI medications can sometimes bring about weight loss as the condition is resolved.
SSRIs and Weight Loss
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According to EMedTV.com, 2 percent of patients taking prozac---the most commonly prescribed SSRI--experience weight loss. In most instances, those with atypical depression will experience the greatest change in weight as the symptoms of the disorder are resolved. Increased levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin can sometimes lead to decreased appetite, especially in those with atypical depression.
Because oversleeping and malaise are symptoms of atypical depression, the increased physical activity that often occurs as depression fades can contribute to weight loss as well. The side effects of SSRIs--which can include nausea, diarrhea and vomiting--may also play a role in any weight loss experienced.
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Side Effects
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Like all medications, SSRIs are known to cause side effects. In some cases, side effects can be severe enough to justify stopping treatment.
Physical side effects include muscle and joint pain, dry mouth, nausea and diarrhea. According to Harvard.edu, SSRIs increase the risk of stomach and uterine bleeding, which can sometimes be fatal. This risk is doubled when SSRIs are combined with NSAID pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen.
Psychological side effects of SSRIs can be just as serious. As of 2005, all SSRI medications are required to carry a black box warning regarding the increased risk of suicide in patients taking the drugs. Other mental and emotional effects---such as agitation, anxiety or mania---can also cause problems in those taking SSRIs.
Paradoxically, weight gain is a possible side effect of SSRIs, making them an unreliable weight loss aid.
The Verdict
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While they can be effective in treating depression and similar mental conditions, SSRI medications are not a safe or reliable weight loss aid for non-depressed persons. The risk of serious side effects combined with the possibility of weight gain makes SSRIs a poor choice for weight loss. Any weight lost with the drugs is usually minimal and not enough to justify use of the medications in the absence of depression. To date, the only proven safe and effective weight loss strategy is implementation of regular exercise and a healthy diet.
Warning
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SSRIs can cause side effects that can sometimes be serious. If you experience worsening depression or anxiety or have thoughts of self-harm, consult your doctor immediately. Avoid abrupt cessation of SSRIs, as this can cause discontinuation syndrome---a withdrawal-like syndrome with potentially harmful effects.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D. Sharon Pruitt
