Weight Gain from SSRIs: Why It Happens and What You Can Do

When you start taking an SSRI, a class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood. Also known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, these drugs help millions manage depression and anxiety—but for many, they come with an unexpected side effect: weight gain. It’s not laziness, poor willpower, or overeating. This isn’t just about cravings. It’s biology. SSRIs change how your body stores fat, regulates appetite, and even moves energy through your system.

One major reason? Serotonin doesn’t just affect your mood—it controls hunger signals in your hypothalamus. When serotonin levels rise too high or stay elevated for too long, your brain starts misreading fullness cues. You might feel hungry even after eating, or crave carbs and sweets more than usual. Studies show that weight gain often starts within the first few months and can continue for over a year. Some people gain 5 pounds; others gain 20. It’s not the same for everyone, but it’s common enough that doctors now screen for it. Another factor? Slowed metabolism. SSRIs can reduce your resting energy expenditure, meaning you burn fewer calories just sitting still. And if you’re feeling less energetic due to depression or medication fatigue, you might move less—making the scale climb even faster.

It’s not just the drug itself. Your body’s response to it matters too. Some SSRIs, like paroxetine, a specific SSRI known for higher rates of weight gain compared to others, are more likely to cause this than others like fluoxetine, an SSRI often associated with weight loss or neutral effects. And if you’re already dealing with insulin resistance, thyroid issues, or hormonal shifts, SSRIs can make those worse. That’s why switching meds or adding lifestyle tweaks isn’t just helpful—it’s often necessary. You don’t have to accept weight gain as inevitable. There are proven ways to fight it, from adjusting timing of doses to combining therapy with light movement.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides that break down how these drugs interact with your body, what alternatives exist, and how to protect your health without giving up your treatment. Whether you’re worried about weight gain from SSRIs or trying to understand why it’s happening, these posts give you the facts—not guesses.

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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