Depression Medications That Cause Weight Loss

Weight loss and depression can be linked in a complex manner. For many years, it has been speculated that the two are somehow related, but the debate has raged on for years, as scientists have sought conclusive proof to support or disprove the link. However, with the increasing amount of scientific and medical evidence surrounding the issue, the connection between the two can no longer be disputed.

As an example, some studies have shown that when certain types of antidepressants are taken, they increase the body's production of two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine and serotonin. Norepinephrine is primarily responsible for the sense of reward and pain perception; serotonin is largely responsible for the creation and maintenance of feelings of pleasure and calmness. Together, these two chemicals act as a "coupon" for the actions of the brain, allowing the depressed person to take part in everyday activities. However, when these medications are used without the proper prescription, they can alter the balance of these chemicals, which ultimately leads to depression.

It should be noted that many people who take antidepressants and other medications for depression do not become clinically depressed until they take their medications for an extended period of time. While some people begin to show signs of depression upon taking their first pill, most people do not become depressed until several weeks or months into their treatment. This makes sense, because with depression, the chemical messages that guide our thought processes do not accurately reflect reality. As such, our brains continue to send non-existent signals to us, leading to confusion and a feeling of discomfort or lack of control. The use of antidepressants in this case, therefore, should not be viewed as a cure, but as a coping mechanism. In addition, this form of treatment should not be used to "self-medicate" as some people erroneously believe it to be.

Other depression medications, however, can actually cause weight loss. An example is Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), also known as Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors. These types of antidepressants have been shown to cause weight gain because they work by altering the way our brain metabolizes serotonin and norepinephrine. When a person experiences depression, these two brain chemicals are altered, resulting in feelings of sadness and fatigue. Because they help reduce stress and anxiety, SSRIs are often prescribed to people who suffer from depression.

Another type of medication often prescribed for depression sufferers is Tagamet. This drug works by increasing the amount of glucose in the body, which helps regulate hunger and metabolism. However, in some cases, Tagamet has been found to cause a decrease in libido and sexual drive in some people. Because of this, Tagamet is often prescribed to people who are obese and have a problem with sexual appetite.

Other depression medicines that cause weight loss include Acomplia. This is taken in tablet form and is designed to help people feel better by reducing their desire to consume food. Agotine is a commonly prescribed anti-depressant medication that also causes weight loss, although not as extreme as some of the other medicines. Agotine is usually prescribed to those who have a problem with severe sweating and excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).

If you are considering taking any of these medicines, you should talk to your doctor about them and be honest about your expectations. Ask your doctor about possible side effects and how to avoid them. Also, discuss how the medicine would affect your current diet and lifestyle. Your doctor may be able to make suggestions about other ways to achieve your weight loss goals besides taking these or similar medicines. Your doctor should be able to figure out which particular medicine is right for you and how you'll be able to incorporate it into your daily routine.

If you are experiencing an excessive amount of weight loss, talk to your doctor about your concerns. It may be time for you to consider talking to your doctor about your depression medications. You may find that they can help you achieve your goals of weight loss without having to worry about serious side effects. Your doctor can tell you more about depression medicines that cause weight loss. With the help of your doctor, you'll be able to get your body back into shape.