Question:
Doc put me on anti-depressant..heard it causes weight gain. help!

I am 3 weeks post-op today, and have been very depressed since my surgery. My PCP put me on Effexor about 4 days ago, and then I heard from several people and read on a few websites that it can cause weight gain. Obviously I do not want this. I was on Effexor 2 yrs ago (for a yr and a half) and gained 80 lbs, but was never aware that it could have been this medication. I do not know what to do...I am tired of feeling depressed, but my weight loss is going really well and do not want to do something to stop my loss or make me gain. Can someone help me on this? Thanks!    — ShannonTxgirl (posted on March 8, 2002)

March 8, 2002
Actually my Wife was on it before we met, and my cousin was also on it for a couple of years. they both lost alot of weight on it. my cousin lost 120 pounds, but when she went of of it **SHOOM** weight came back.
   — sbinkerd1

March 8, 2002
I think it totally depends on the person. I have heard of people gaining and losing on the same medication. I have been taking celexa for over a year and haven't had weight gain (caused by that anyway). I tried changing medications in case that was contributing to my gain, but no such luck! I wouldn't worry about it. If you need an anti-depressent anyway, that is most important first. If you do experience weight gain with it, you can try something else. Some people do have to try a few before they get the "right" one. Good luck! I have had depression for a while so if you ever need to talk, feel free to email me!
   — emilyfink

March 8, 2002
I am a psychiatrist. The previous poster is correct. Most antidepressants which can cause weight gain cause it via carbohydrate craving NOT slowing metabolism. I haven't had anyone gain weight with Effexor. Tricyclics, serzone, antipsychotics, depakote, tegretol and some others are known to be associated with weight gain.
   — Pamela B.