Antidepressants That Cause Weight Gain: What You Need to Know

When you start taking an antidepressant, a medication used to treat depression and sometimes anxiety by balancing brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine. Also known as antidepressive drugs, these are among the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications worldwide. But for many people, the relief from sadness comes with an unwanted side effect: weight gain. It’s not just in your head—it’s real, measurable, and happens with specific types of these drugs more than others.

The biggest culprits are often tricyclic antidepressants, an older class of antidepressants that affect multiple brain chemicals and are known for stronger side effects like amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine. These meds slow down your metabolism and increase appetite, especially for carbs. Then there are the SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a newer group of antidepressants that boost serotonin levels to improve mood like paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft). Paroxetine, in particular, is linked to weight gain in over 25% of long-term users. Even though SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) might help you lose weight at first, many people gain pounds after six months or more.

Why does this happen? It’s not just about eating more. These drugs change how your brain talks to your stomach, how your body stores fat, and even how sensitive you are to insulin. Some people feel less anxious and start eating more because food feels safer. Others just feel hungrier all the time—no matter how much they eat. And if you’re already dealing with depression, it’s harder to stick to a workout routine or cook healthy meals. The cycle is real: low mood → less movement → weight gain → worse mood.

Not all antidepressants do this. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is often chosen specifically because it doesn’t cause weight gain—and may even help with weight loss. Mirtazapine, on the other hand, is a known weight gainer. The key isn’t avoiding treatment—it’s knowing which drug fits your body, your goals, and your lifestyle. If you’re on one of these meds and noticing the scale creep up, talk to your doctor. Switching isn’t always easy, but it’s often possible.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons of antidepressants that show exactly which ones are most likely to cause weight gain, how they stack up against alternatives, and what you can do to manage it without giving up your mental health progress. No fluff. Just facts from people who’ve been there.

Weight Gain from Antidepressants: Which Drugs Cause It and How to Stop It

Weight Gain from Antidepressants: Which Drugs Cause It and How to Stop It

  • Oct, 31 2025
  • 10

Learn which antidepressants are most likely to cause weight gain, how they affect your metabolism, and practical ways to manage or reverse it without stopping your medication.

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