Why am I gaining so much weight on Lexapro?

Why am I gaining so much weight on Lexapro?

A person may gain some weight when taking Lexapro. This can happen for different reasons. Lexapro boosts serotonin, which plays a role in controlling weight. The medication may increase appetite directly, or a person may begin to eat more as their depression or anxiety lessens.

Why do antidepressants make you put on weight?

Antidepressants interfere with serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety and mood while also controlling appetite. In particular, these changes may increase cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods, such as bread, pasta, and desserts. When people are depressed, their appetites are affected.

Is Lexapro a appetite suppressant?

Escitalopram may cause weight loss or a decrease in appetite. Teenagers who will be taking it for a long time should have their weight and growth measured on a regular basis.

How does Lexapro make you gain weight?

Lexapro and Weight. Many antidepressants can affect weight.

  • Lexapro and Depression or Anxiety. Both depression and anxiety can affect a person’s appetite.
  • Other Side Effects of Lexapro.
  • Managing Weight on Antidepressants.
  • Frequently Asked Questions.
  • Summary.
  • A Word From VeryWell.
  • How much weight can you gain with Lexapro?

    The only SSRI to cause some initial weight loss before weight gain was fluoxetine. The average weight gain for Lexapro was less than 0.5 percent. The most significant weight gain occurred in young men and those who had a low body mass index ( BMI) before starting treatment.

    Will Lexapro make me fat?

    Lexapro often causes weight gain, but is not guaranteed to. Reducing caloric intake will not necessarily prevent weight gain. Whether or not someone experiences weight gain as a side effect of using antidepressants, including SSRIs like Lexapro, is more individualistic than a universal certainty.

    Why does Lexapro cause weight loss?

    – Nausea and/or loss of appetite – Diarrhea or vomiting – Metabolic disturbances – Hormonal imbalances – Stunted growth and/or changes in tissue