Dealing with Lexapro Weight Gain

Why Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?

Although medical professionals are not exactly certain why antidepressants like Lexapro result in weight gain, most assume that it affects the appetite and metabolism of the user.¹ Research shows that this type of drug treatment can cause the body to burn fewer calories over time, slow down the metabolism, or cause cravings to overeat foods like carbohydrates and sugar.¹

This can ultimately result in a number of other adverse effects on the body, including:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Stroke
• Joint pain
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain cancers

It is important to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before taking Lexapro, as well as any pre-existing conditions that could heighten the chances of excessive weight gain. Unexpectedly gaining weight, paired with being unable to lose it, can greatly damage a person’s levels of anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. This, in turn, defeats the original purpose of taking Lexapro.

Addressing Weight Gain From Lexapro

There are numerous steps that a person can take to mitigate instances of Lexapro weight gain. The most obvious is to modify one’s diet and amp up their exercise regimen. This does not necessarily mean that a person needs to spend hours at the gym or only eat greens. Rather, practicing mindful eating, listening to one’s body, nourishing it, and prioritizing movement can all help manage a person’s physical and mental health.

It may also be worth discussing a shift in medications with your doctor. Antidepressants like Wellbutrin and Effexor are less likely to cause the same issues seen with Lexapro and weight gain.² Even so, a person who shifts their prescriptions should continue to closely monitor themselves for other symptoms in case they are not as responsive to the drug.

It is also important to consider that these antidepressants hold the potential for abuse and addiction. Although not as common, any substance can cause dependency, and relying too heavily on any drug or taking more or less without speaking to a doctor can cause serious issues. To address these issues, Banyan Stuart offers Florida addiction treatment for prescription drugs. Patients can also access life-changing therapies that can help them learn to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Our drug and alcohol rehab in Cathedral City, CA provides partial hospitalization that can help individuals manage substance abuse through evidence-based approaches and personalized care plans.