Updated 3/20/24Lexapro(escitalopram) is a commonpsychiatrist-prescribed medicationthat’s been proven effective in helping to manage symptoms related to depression and anxiety. It’s not without side effects, though.Research suggeststhat some people gain weight on aLexapro prescription.If you’re considering taking Lexapro or are already on it and have noticed weight change, you might be wondering why Lexapro weight gain occurs. Once you understand more about this potential side effect, you can make informed decisions about whether or not Lexapro is right for you.Keep reading to learn more about Lexapro and weight gain. We’re covering how much weight some people gain, why weight change might happen, how to avoid it, and more.Lexapro prescription onlineGet an evaluation and prescription for Lexapro from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.Get started
Updated 3/20/24
Lexapro(escitalopram) is a commonpsychiatrist-prescribed medicationthat’s been proven effective in helping to manage symptoms related to depression and anxiety. It’s not without side effects, though.Research suggeststhat some people gain weight on aLexapro prescription.
If you’re considering taking Lexapro or are already on it and have noticed weight change, you might be wondering why Lexapro weight gain occurs. Once you understand more about this potential side effect, you can make informed decisions about whether or not Lexapro is right for you.
Keep reading to learn more about Lexapro and weight gain. We’re covering how much weight some people gain, why weight change might happen, how to avoid it, and more.
Lexapro prescription onlineGet an evaluation and prescription for Lexapro from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.Get started
Lexapro prescription onlineGet an evaluation and prescription for Lexapro from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.
Lexapro prescription online
Get an evaluation and prescription for Lexapro from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.
Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?While it can be effective in treating anxiety and depression, Lexapro has been has been shown to cause weight gain in some people. This weight change is primarily due to Lexapro’s impact on the serotonin transporter, leading to increased serotonin levels in the brain. While serotonin uplifts mood, it can also inadvertently heighten appetite and reduce metabolic rate.“All medications have some level of side effects associated with them. It is no different with Lexapro. A commonly reported symptom is weight gain. This can be due to a multitude of reasons but it does exist. Managing the possibility of weight gain through adjustments in exercise and diet will be important.”–Talkspace therapist Minkyung Chung, MS, LMHCHow much weight do you gain on Lexapro?Some research found that up to41% of peoplewho take Lexapro might experience increased body weight. It can take anywhere from 6 – 8 weeks to see theside effects of Lexaprofully, and it’sduring that timeit can be more common to start seeing fluctuations in weight.Lexapro and weight gain can vary from person to person.One studyfound that people on Lexapro for 9 months gained an average of 2.4 pounds.
Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?
While it can be effective in treating anxiety and depression, Lexapro has been has been shown to cause weight gain in some people. This weight change is primarily due to Lexapro’s impact on the serotonin transporter, leading to increased serotonin levels in the brain. While serotonin uplifts mood, it can also inadvertently heighten appetite and reduce metabolic rate.
“All medications have some level of side effects associated with them. It is no different with Lexapro. A commonly reported symptom is weight gain. This can be due to a multitude of reasons but it does exist. Managing the possibility of weight gain through adjustments in exercise and diet will be important.”
How much weight do you gain on Lexapro?
Some research found that up to41% of peoplewho take Lexapro might experience increased body weight. It can take anywhere from 6 – 8 weeks to see theside effects of Lexaprofully, and it’sduring that timeit can be more common to start seeing fluctuations in weight.
Lexapro and weight gain can vary from person to person.One studyfound that people on Lexapro for 9 months gained an average of 2.4 pounds.
Why Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?
Several factors can contribute to the relationship between Lexapro and weight gain. For example, some medications are known to cause an increase in appetite, changes in metabolism, or fluid retention. In addition, some people find it challenging to maintain an active lifestyle when feeling low or anxious — which can also contribute to weight gain over time if left unchecked.
Researchidentifies multiple possible explanations for why someone might gain weight on Lexapro. Some of them include the following:
Sedentary lifestyle
Some people who aren’t active or don’t work out might be more prone to gaining weight when on depression oranxiety medicationlike Lexapro.
Serotonin levels changing
One theory about Lexapro and weight gain is that increased serotonin levels can lead to changes in appetite or metabolism, resulting in unwanted weight gain.
Increased cravings
Another possibility is that an SSRI antidepressant like Lexapro can increase cravings for certain types of food, including carbohydrates or sweets.
Smoking
Some people with a history of smoking might gain weight after starting prescription antidepressant treatment.
As always it’s important to talk to your doctor before you smoke or use any substance alongside Lexapro.Lexapro and alcoholare not recommended together so be sure you always talk to your doctor about potential interactions.
Increased appetite
Finally, some people simply eat more when feeling better emotionally due to improved moods from antidepressants like Lexapro. Depression and anxiety can cause a decreased appetite so a reduction of those symptoms can improve someone’s appetite, potentially resulting in weight changes.
Does Lexapro Weight Gain Go Away?It’s not uncommon for people to experience weight gain while taking Lexapro. The good news is that this side effect often might go away once the body adjusts to the drug and your metabolism returns to normal.How long does weight gain from Lexapro last?The duration of Lexapro weight gain varies from person to person. Some people experience it immediately after starting the medication. Others, though, might only notice changes once they have taken it for several weeks or months. It might be the case that the longer you take Lexapro, the more likely it is that you’ll experience some weight gain.
Does Lexapro Weight Gain Go Away?
It’s not uncommon for people to experience weight gain while taking Lexapro. The good news is that this side effect often might go away once the body adjusts to the drug and your metabolism returns to normal.
How long does weight gain from Lexapro last?
The duration of Lexapro weight gain varies from person to person. Some people experience it immediately after starting the medication. Others, though, might only notice changes once they have taken it for several weeks or months. It might be the case that the longer you take Lexapro, the more likely it is that you’ll experience some weight gain.
How to Avoid Gaining Weight on Lexapro
If you want to try and avoid the potential side effect of gaining too much weight while on Lexapro, there are steps you can take. Here are some tips to help prevent weight gain when taking Lexapro:
“Learning to manage weight gain while on Lexapro will be helpful in ensuring the benefits of the medication are aiding the symptoms of depression. Weight gain can cause additional health-related risks but also more symptoms of depression heavily related to the weight gain. Ensuring proactive changes to diet and exercise, employing healthy coping skills, and talking to the psychiatrists and therapists will be important in managing those side effects.”
If you notice significant weight gain or changes in your appetite while taking Lexapro, talk to your doctor immediately. They may suggest adjusting the dosage or switching medications if necessary. Additionally, they can advise on how best to manage any other side effects associated with this drug, including unwanted weight gain.
By making lifestyle changes and focusing on weight management while taking Lexapro, you can avoid gaining weight.
Some natural supplements are also available that have been shown effective at reducing symptoms associated with depression. Some are effective without causing significant Lexapro side effects like increased appetite or cravings. You can ask your doctor about these options as well.
Talk to Your Doctor About Lexapro Side EffectsWhile Lexapro can be effective in treating your mental health condition, there are side effects — like the possibility of weight gain — to be aware of before starting the medication.Understanding the potential Lexapro side effects can help determine if the drug might be a good option as part of your treatment plan. Your doctor will ensure you understand what might occur and how to best manage side effects like increased body weight. Be sure to also talk to your doctor about other medical advice regarding Lexapro, such as usingLexapro while pregnant.Lexapro weight gain can be a common side effect, but it doesn’t impact everyone who takes this medication.Multiple studiesconclude that certain antidepressant medication like Lexapro can result in weight gain. However, it varies from person to person depending on individual factors such as age, lifestyle habits, diet, and activity level.Understanding the nuances of Lexapro and its potential side effects, such as weight gain, is crucial for anyone considering this medication as part of their treatment plan. While lifestyle adjustments can help mitigate some risks, it’s vital to have professional guidance tailored to your unique health profile and concerns.Talkspace recognizes the importance of accessible, comprehensive mental health support, especially when navigating the complexities of medication like Lexapro. Ouronline psychiatryservices provide a convenient way to connect with licensed psychiatrists from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re experiencing side effects, have concerns about Lexapro and weight gain, or are seeking alternatives, our team is here to support you. Our psychiatrists can offer personalized advice, adjust prescriptions as necessary, and explore other treatment options that align better with your health goals and lifestyle.
Talk to Your Doctor About Lexapro Side Effects
While Lexapro can be effective in treating your mental health condition, there are side effects — like the possibility of weight gain — to be aware of before starting the medication.
Understanding the potential Lexapro side effects can help determine if the drug might be a good option as part of your treatment plan. Your doctor will ensure you understand what might occur and how to best manage side effects like increased body weight. Be sure to also talk to your doctor about other medical advice regarding Lexapro, such as usingLexapro while pregnant.
Lexapro weight gain can be a common side effect, but it doesn’t impact everyone who takes this medication.Multiple studiesconclude that certain antidepressant medication like Lexapro can result in weight gain. However, it varies from person to person depending on individual factors such as age, lifestyle habits, diet, and activity level.
Understanding the nuances of Lexapro and its potential side effects, such as weight gain, is crucial for anyone considering this medication as part of their treatment plan. While lifestyle adjustments can help mitigate some risks, it’s vital to have professional guidance tailored to your unique health profile and concerns.
Talkspace recognizes the importance of accessible, comprehensive mental health support, especially when navigating the complexities of medication like Lexapro. Ouronline psychiatryservices provide a convenient way to connect with licensed psychiatrists from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re experiencing side effects, have concerns about Lexapro and weight gain, or are seeking alternatives, our team is here to support you. Our psychiatrists can offer personalized advice, adjust prescriptions as necessary, and explore other treatment options that align better with your health goals and lifestyle.
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