Antidepressants That Don't Cause Weight Gain

Many antidepressants have the side effect of weight gain. This may lead to stopping the medication, which results in the depressive symptoms returning or becoming worse. However, medications are available that are less likely to lead to weight gain. Always discuss any potential side effects of medications with your doctor.

Wellbutrin

• Wellbutrin (bupropion) has a very low risk of causing weight gain. It actually appears to have the opposite effect in many individuals: weight loss. Zyban, another marketed form of bupropion, is used as a stop smoking aid, so Wellbutrin may also help with quitting smoking.

Prozac

• Prozac (fluoxetine) is an SSRI (serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor) that is associated with both weight loss and weight gain as possible side effects. Weight gain is not as common with Prozac as many other SSRIs.

Cymbalta

• Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a newer anti-depressant that has been shown to be rather weight neutral. It has also been shown to be effective in treatment of fibromyalgia.

Asendin

• Asendin (amoxapine) is a heterocyclic antidepressant that is generally not associated weight gain or weight loss. However, heterocyclic antidepressants are rarely prescribed due to potentially serious side effects.

Diet and Exercise

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet and following a regular exercise routine helps prevent weight gain and can help alleviate depression.