You want your prescription to treat your mental or physical health problem without leaving you feeling worse in other ways, right? Hearing that Paxil (generic name paroxetine) may cause weight gain might be a major downer. But before you decide whether or not you’re going to take this drug based on this risk of weight gain, you should at least find out if it’s even true. Find out if paroxetine really causes weight gain, which psychiatric diseases it addresses, and more by reading on!
The Connection Between Paxil and Weight Gain
It’s possible that some people using antidepressants will gain weight while taking them. However, some antidepressants, especially tricyclic antidepressants, have been linked to weight gain more so than SSRIs (such as paroxetine). For about 10% of those who take SSRIs for a long time, weight gain becomes a problem.
Some researchers have suggested that paroxetine may not be directly responsible for weight gain. When depressed, some people find that they have lost their appetite. Then, if they start taking medicine for their depression, such as paroxetine, they may start to overeat as their depression symptoms improve.
Studies linking paroxetine directly to increased body fat have been few and far between. Individuals who took paroxetine for vasomotor symptoms related to menopause were the focus of the one study that investigated the link between the two. It concluded that there was no proof that the drug caused weight gain. It is important to note that the participants in this study were only given a very little dose of paroxetine.
What, therefore, is the ultimate resolution? It’s not that black and white. It’s unlikely that paroxetine would cause you to gain weight, but it’s also not impossible.
Preventing Weight Gain From Antidepressants
Those who are on paroxetine and have had rapid weight gain should consult a doctor. To ensure the healthiest weight management possible while taking an antidepressant, there are a few adjustments to your lifestyle that can help.
Stick to a Healthy Diet
Whatever meds you’re on, it’s best to keep eating right. Including lean meats and fish in your diet, along with fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado, will aid in your weight loss efforts.
Exercise Regularly
Exercising can help you avoid or reduce weight gain. However, the advantages of this strategy extend beyond a simple numerical improvement. Exercising, whether it’s a jog outside or a barre class, reduces stress hormones and releases feel-good endorphins. Even five minutes of getting your heart rate up have been proven to lessen anxiety.
Side Effects of Paroxetine
Paradoxical reactions are possible with paroxetine, as they are with most drugs. Paroxetine often causes the following unwanted effects:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Forgetfulness
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Negative impacts on sexual desire
- Discomfort in the limbs or muscles
- Heartburn
- Alterations to one’s weight, such as a decrease or increase
For most people, they should fade away after weeks of treatment. However, if your symptoms persist for more than that, it’s best to see a doctor. They can advise you on whether or not to use any other mental medications. In addition to the foregoing, paroxetine has been linked to a host of significant side effects. These are uncommon, but you should seek medical attention right once if you have any of them.
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Learning More About Paxil
To treat depression, doctors often prescribe Paxil or paroxetine. Selected serotonin reuptake inhibitors are a type of antidepressant. Serotonin is boosted by this particular antidepressant. Extended-release tablets, liquid, and regular tablets are all available forms of paroxetine.
Major depressive illness, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders like PTSD, panic disorder, and others are the most common indications for this class of prescription drugs. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder and menopausal symptoms are two more conditions it can help (like hot flashes).
Those who are currently taking paroxetine and wish to discontinue use must work with their healthcare provider to go off the drug gradually. Because of this, you won’t have to deal with the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that other drugs cause.
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Challenges With Paxil and Weight Gain
Many people get relief from their symptoms of depression, anxiety, and the side effects of menopause when they take Paroxetine. It is also beneficial in treating bipolar disorder, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (like hot flashes).
Paroxetine’s negative effects are extensive and can include but are not limited to the following: headaches, disorientation, sexual side effects (such as reduced libido), and more. Even with its potential adverse effects, paroxetine is a useful treatment for depression and anxiety. The negative effects typically fade away within a few weeks.
Antidepressants have been linked to weight increase in several studies. However, paroxetine and other SSRIs are usually regarded not to induce weight gain – but they can in a tiny number of people. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if weight gain while taking paroxetine has you worried, or if you have any other questions or concerns regarding mental health.
Last Lines
You want to feel better after taking the medicine prescribed to you, not worse. It could be disheartening to learn that Paxil (generic name paroxetine) could make you gain weight.
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