OCAngel
02-21-2003, 04:56 PM
this is an interesting board and I like all the comments on here
Sponsor
coraldnz
02-21-2003, 05:49 PM
First of all, what meds are you on, what for, etc... I have gained weight from quite a few. It is a horrible game trying to find a medicine that works but doesn't cause weight gain. I will log back on this weekend and see what you reply. hang in there. :)coral
OCAngel
02-21-2003, 06:07 PM
exercise and diet is the key to good health and weight loss
pennyb
02-22-2003, 02:40 PM
OCAngel, since i have been taking paxil i have gained about 25-30lbs. The company GSK at first didn't state anything about weight gain. Unfortunatly, they didn't state of the withdraws either nor the suicide thoughts. These compaines will lie and lie and lie. So in all fairness i think you can assume that yes you have been lied to.
fairnymph
02-24-2003, 09:49 PM
I gained 10% of my body weight in a month on Remeron - YUCK! I went off it soon after.
I did not gain or lose any weight on: Wellbutrin, Reboxetine, or Tianeptine.
I gained a pound or two but not much -- on Prozac, Zoloft.
I lost 15 lbs on Effexor and kept it off.
I did not gain or lose any weight on: Wellbutrin, Reboxetine, or Tianeptine.
I gained a pound or two but not much -- on Prozac, Zoloft.
I lost 15 lbs on Effexor and kept it off.
HvnsAngel
03-16-2003, 04:15 PM
I have gained 15 lbs (which is a lot for my size) on Lexapro. I have also lost my sex drive. I have been on it since Dec. Dr said weight gain is not a side effect but has now given me Wellbutrin to take with it to counteract some of the side effects.
Eyrdan
03-18-2003, 09:44 PM
Originally posted by OCAngel:
I took myslef off 4 months ago and for the last three months have been on an extreme fitness program, monitored 1,200 p/d calorie diet, and taking fat burners. With all of this in the last 3 months I have lost NO WEiGHT WHATSOEVER.
Are you sure this extra weight is from fat? Remember, muscle weighs more than fat, so fitness programs can in fact increase your weight. Personally I've had intense muscle tension and spasms on Effexor which resulted in a very noticeable increase in muscle tone (and in weight). In fact, my pects are now showing, and they hadn't for around 10 years (after I stopped practicing martial arts), and this without doing any exercises, simply from muscle stress.
I took myslef off 4 months ago and for the last three months have been on an extreme fitness program, monitored 1,200 p/d calorie diet, and taking fat burners. With all of this in the last 3 months I have lost NO WEiGHT WHATSOEVER.
Are you sure this extra weight is from fat? Remember, muscle weighs more than fat, so fitness programs can in fact increase your weight. Personally I've had intense muscle tension and spasms on Effexor which resulted in a very noticeable increase in muscle tone (and in weight). In fact, my pects are now showing, and they hadn't for around 10 years (after I stopped practicing martial arts), and this without doing any exercises, simply from muscle stress.
hannie5
03-21-2003, 04:47 AM
OCAngel, all I can tell you is that Effexor XR at 112 and a half milligrams a day caused me to gain a good 9 to 10 pounds within a year. That's alot for a short under 5 ft woman. This drug was supposed to help with anxiety and depression, but after the weight gain, I began to experience more depression from the way I looked in the mirror. Even after I vowed to get more serious about exercising and eating right, the weight stayed on my frame. So, my doctor prescribed Welbutrin, to lose the weight and also, to get back my libido, which has been missing for some time now. Welbutrin, thank God, has helped me to lose the weight, but so far, no libido. Ask your Dr. about Welbutrin. The only side effects I experienced were a small amount of nautiousness for the first 2 days, and sometimes a jittery feeling. The good thing about this drug is that I can skip taking it for a day if I'm feeling too jittery, and so far, I've had no negative withdrawal symptoms. I'm still trying to get that libido back. Hope this helps ya.
hannie5
hannie5
Aprilrain
03-30-2003, 07:15 PM
I have gained some weight since I've been on Paxil, and I think the reason is that my appetite has increased, espcially for sweets and carbohydrates. I'm hungry all the time!
Aprilrain
Aprilrain
KRM123
03-31-2003, 01:14 AM
Yeah- the Dr.'s always say it's not the meds!Wellbutrin is the only AD that I know of that is rarely known to cause weight gain. SSRI's are the biggest culprits.
Here are a few links that you might find interesting on why the AD's make us gain:
This one explains the increased craving for carbs http://www.mhsanctuary.com/borderline/BPDr/32.HTM
This one explains how metabolism can be lowered
Resting Metabolic Rate is Reduced in Patients Treated with Antidepressants http://www.mvelectric.com/inositol/METABOL.HTM
GOD BLESS EVERYONE. TAKE CARE.
Here are a few links that you might find interesting on why the AD's make us gain:
This one explains the increased craving for carbs http://www.mhsanctuary.com/borderline/BPDr/32.HTM
This one explains how metabolism can be lowered
Resting Metabolic Rate is Reduced in Patients Treated with Antidepressants http://www.mvelectric.com/inositol/METABOL.HTM
GOD BLESS EVERYONE. TAKE CARE.
boxerlover
04-02-2003, 03:23 PM
I have gained so much weight from these meds. I've been taking them for a while - like 9 years. I started out on Prozac and gained like 50lbs over a very short period, but then it tapered off, but after about 7 years on Prozac, it pooped out on me. When that happended, I started taking a combo of Paxil and Remeron and gained an addition 20lbs! It's amazing to me. I am very active, I never had a weight problem in my life, but over the years I had learned to accept it and just be happy that I wansn't feeling crazy anymore. Latley, I have heard of a new drug call Lexapro and I am going to the Dr's tomorrow and talk with him about it. Apparently, it doesn't have the weight gain side effect and I am hoping to switch, and lose weight if possible. I have tried every diet in the book and it just seems like I am fighting a losing battle.
So, you are not alone. Feel free to e-mail me anytime. I truly do understand.
So, you are not alone. Feel free to e-mail me anytime. I truly do understand.
jasonp82
04-16-2003, 07:39 AM
There are several AD's that can cause weight loss, but more that cause weight gain.. Of course, you know what everyone has to say... "It depends on the person". The meds I have been that didn't cause any weight gain, or even caused weight loss are:
Wellbutrin
Prozac
Zoloft
Parnate (an MAOI, rarely prescribed).. I lost about 30 pounds
Celexa - I maintained my weight
Effexor
There are others that cause *little* weight gain.. that is my experience!
Wellbutrin
Prozac
Zoloft
Parnate (an MAOI, rarely prescribed).. I lost about 30 pounds
Celexa - I maintained my weight
Effexor
There are others that cause *little* weight gain.. that is my experience!
HoosierBj
04-16-2003, 10:17 AM
Originally posted by OCAngel:
AND THEY WERE NOT TOLD IN ADVANCE OF TAKING THEM THEY WOULD BECOME DEFORMED BY WEIGHT GAIN!
I gained 45 lbs over a few years. I don't know if it was due to my medication, too much Mountain Dew, inactivity due to depression or what.
But PLEASE re-think your use of the phrase "deformed by weight gain". For some people 20 extra lbs seems like 200. I've known pregnant women who actually considered themselves "fat". Overweight people are not deformed!
I've lost 15 lbs, and may never lose the entire 45, but I care about myself enough (and I hope you do too!!!) to never refer to myself so negatively!
It's what's between your ears, and how we treat each other & ourselves that matters. Not what we look like.
We're talking Mental HEALTH here!
AND THEY WERE NOT TOLD IN ADVANCE OF TAKING THEM THEY WOULD BECOME DEFORMED BY WEIGHT GAIN!
I gained 45 lbs over a few years. I don't know if it was due to my medication, too much Mountain Dew, inactivity due to depression or what.
But PLEASE re-think your use of the phrase "deformed by weight gain". For some people 20 extra lbs seems like 200. I've known pregnant women who actually considered themselves "fat". Overweight people are not deformed!
I've lost 15 lbs, and may never lose the entire 45, but I care about myself enough (and I hope you do too!!!) to never refer to myself so negatively!
It's what's between your ears, and how we treat each other & ourselves that matters. Not what we look like.
We're talking Mental HEALTH here!
Monique2583
04-21-2003, 06:27 PM
Originally posted by jasonp82:
There are several AD's that can cause weight loss, but more that cause weight gain.. Of course, you know what everyone has to say... "It depends on the person". The meds I have been that didn't cause any weight gain, or even caused weight loss are:
Wellbutrin
Prozac
Zoloft
Parnate (an MAOI, rarely prescribed).. I lost about 30 pounds
Celexa - I maintained my weight
Effexor
There are others that cause *little* weight gain.. that is my experience!
How long were you on effexor XR?
There are several AD's that can cause weight loss, but more that cause weight gain.. Of course, you know what everyone has to say... "It depends on the person". The meds I have been that didn't cause any weight gain, or even caused weight loss are:
Wellbutrin
Prozac
Zoloft
Parnate (an MAOI, rarely prescribed).. I lost about 30 pounds
Celexa - I maintained my weight
Effexor
There are others that cause *little* weight gain.. that is my experience!
How long were you on effexor XR?
siouxsie
04-23-2003, 09:38 AM
I have also gained over 20 lbs. since starting Effexor XR a year ago. Didn't have wieght gain on 75mg/day but did as soon as I started on 150 mg/day. Would love to find something else but am hesitant to do so because this has treated my depression (infrequent, moderate episodes) and anxiety (persistent) VERY well. I know it's the meds. because I'm moderately active, eat healthy etc.. Hoping to find something that will take off the weight (maybe low-carb diet). Am not satisfied w/ thinking that the increased weight is the "sacrifice" I have to make. Starting the search for what will work.
LowBudgetOprah
05-17-2003, 11:29 PM
I have been on virtually *every* antidepressant medication on the face of the earth. I have even tried ones that were not meant for depression, but were in the testing phase (i.e. Neurontin). Drugs tried: Lithium, Adipan, Sinequan, Amitryptylline, Prozac, Zoloft, Citalopram, Perphenazine, Buspar, Paxil, Effexor, Wellbutrin, Topamax, etc...
The list goes on. But, the bottom line is that I would have continued on Topamax *forever* if I had a choice. It not only helped my depression, but it took off the excess weight that the other meds had put on! When I was moved to another medical provider and told that this med was not approved for depression, I went through another series of meds and eventually was placed on effexor, gaining 100 pounds in one year! NIGHT-FREAKING-MARE! Sure, I was *sane*, but I was so very unhappy with myself physically. So, recently, I did some research and found out more about Wellbutrin and decided to start taking it again. The only reason I stopped it before was because of the extreme dry mouth. I noticed an *immediate* change in my appetite. The carbohydrate cravings ceased completely!
When I saw my doc, I told her about my bold decision to change meds on my own, and also told her that if I could have remained on the Topamax I would have been fine. Well, I almost jumped for joy when she said that Topamax was now approved for depression (previously only approved for epilepsy) and that she could prescribe it! So, she prescribed both Wellbutrin 150 (2x day) and Topamax 25 (1x day). So far, so good. No more cravings...and much more energy. The lethargy is gone. I only hope that it *lasts*.
Good luck to everyone. I know it isn't easy living with depression and/or any other form of mental disease. So, I hope that you all find something that will work without causing additional pain.
God Bless!
------------------
"Don't push the river...it flows by itself."
The list goes on. But, the bottom line is that I would have continued on Topamax *forever* if I had a choice. It not only helped my depression, but it took off the excess weight that the other meds had put on! When I was moved to another medical provider and told that this med was not approved for depression, I went through another series of meds and eventually was placed on effexor, gaining 100 pounds in one year! NIGHT-FREAKING-MARE! Sure, I was *sane*, but I was so very unhappy with myself physically. So, recently, I did some research and found out more about Wellbutrin and decided to start taking it again. The only reason I stopped it before was because of the extreme dry mouth. I noticed an *immediate* change in my appetite. The carbohydrate cravings ceased completely!
When I saw my doc, I told her about my bold decision to change meds on my own, and also told her that if I could have remained on the Topamax I would have been fine. Well, I almost jumped for joy when she said that Topamax was now approved for depression (previously only approved for epilepsy) and that she could prescribe it! So, she prescribed both Wellbutrin 150 (2x day) and Topamax 25 (1x day). So far, so good. No more cravings...and much more energy. The lethargy is gone. I only hope that it *lasts*.
Good luck to everyone. I know it isn't easy living with depression and/or any other form of mental disease. So, I hope that you all find something that will work without causing additional pain.
God Bless!
------------------
"Don't push the river...it flows by itself."
Vlasik
05-21-2003, 12:54 AM
I took Effexor for almost 2 years and it did not make me gain weight at all. In fact, I lost 3 pounds after starting, and kept it off. It did cause other side effects, but weight gain was not one of them.
tealoh
05-22-2003, 02:29 PM
i gained about 50 pounds over seven years, on paxil
but i am not blaming the meds, rather the fact that when i started to feeling better and i was no longer a nervous wreck,i wasn't worrying the weight off,and my endless stomache aches dissappeared, so eating was a pleasurable again,food tasted incredibly delicious, and i was so into rewarding myself for getting better that i overindulged in every thing!Also, the weight gain really didn't bother me, as it would have pre-paxil (i would have flipped out!) so i did nothing about it...just kept eating and enjoying every bite....and kept buying bigger sized clothes
no one said anything to me ,they were so gald that i was not crying and screaming and flipping out anymore that they didn't care! but i realize now that this can't cintinue, i can't keep gaining and gaining...so i started the atkins diet,lost 7 pounds so far, i hope to lose the whole 50 , but if i don't i'd still rather be fat than the way i was before!
but i am not blaming the meds, rather the fact that when i started to feeling better and i was no longer a nervous wreck,i wasn't worrying the weight off,and my endless stomache aches dissappeared, so eating was a pleasurable again,food tasted incredibly delicious, and i was so into rewarding myself for getting better that i overindulged in every thing!Also, the weight gain really didn't bother me, as it would have pre-paxil (i would have flipped out!) so i did nothing about it...just kept eating and enjoying every bite....and kept buying bigger sized clothes
no one said anything to me ,they were so gald that i was not crying and screaming and flipping out anymore that they didn't care! but i realize now that this can't cintinue, i can't keep gaining and gaining...so i started the atkins diet,lost 7 pounds so far, i hope to lose the whole 50 , but if i don't i'd still rather be fat than the way i was before!
calico12
05-23-2003, 01:46 AM
I was on Anafranil for many years and gained about 50 lbs. I know prozac and zoloft usually make you lose weight. I have been on them in the past. I would talk to your doctor and see if there is any other medicine that you can take that you get the same results from but not the weight gain. I have been through the problem you are talking about for the past 10 years it can be frustrating.Good luck I hope you find a solution.
BrianKosh
05-27-2003, 02:54 AM
Yes, some snti-depressants make u gain weight. And yes, not all of the pharmaceutical companies tell u that. BUT your doctor should. However it might not happen to everyone. If u had a new product and u wanted to sell stuff would u tell anyone?
As how I lost it, well it's one way u tend not to want to lose weight... I lost it through the disease Ulcerative colitis, so naturally that is NOT the answer u wanted to hear, nor is it a fun weight loss.
Unfortunately now I am yo-yo'ing with my weight and that is really a bad thing.
I guess the medical world assumes you are excersing as well since it is suppose to do wonders for depression and anxiety, but the really should warn u if what side effects you could have from the meds.
Soooooooooooooo, I take it that was no help what so ever..
As how I lost it, well it's one way u tend not to want to lose weight... I lost it through the disease Ulcerative colitis, so naturally that is NOT the answer u wanted to hear, nor is it a fun weight loss.
Unfortunately now I am yo-yo'ing with my weight and that is really a bad thing.
I guess the medical world assumes you are excersing as well since it is suppose to do wonders for depression and anxiety, but the really should warn u if what side effects you could have from the meds.
Soooooooooooooo, I take it that was no help what so ever..
Trish69
06-02-2003, 02:11 PM
Hi. New to this board.
This is a reply to "OCAngel" regarding weight gain on antidepressants. I have been off and on these meds for about 10 years. I have taken almost all of them. The one that helped me the most for a while was Paxil. It really made a huge difference in the way I felt and perceived people and everything around me. BUT, it did make me gain weight, about 20 pounds. I went off of it for almost a year and lost all the weight! I was back down to 119 pounds. Then the depression and all that comes with it started creeping back up on me. I went to my doctor and he prescribed Effexor XR stating that it should not cause any significant weight gain. WELL, after only 8 weeks of being on it I'm back up to 134 pounds. I HATE THIS. I am small framed and 10 or 15 pounds is very noticable on me. I look "chunky" as some people call it. Especially in my mid-section. I have noticed an appetite increase but I don't really over do it. I'm wondering if these meds cause a change in metabolism. Anyway, I understand your frustration and if you or anyone knows the solution please let me know.
Take care.
This is a reply to "OCAngel" regarding weight gain on antidepressants. I have been off and on these meds for about 10 years. I have taken almost all of them. The one that helped me the most for a while was Paxil. It really made a huge difference in the way I felt and perceived people and everything around me. BUT, it did make me gain weight, about 20 pounds. I went off of it for almost a year and lost all the weight! I was back down to 119 pounds. Then the depression and all that comes with it started creeping back up on me. I went to my doctor and he prescribed Effexor XR stating that it should not cause any significant weight gain. WELL, after only 8 weeks of being on it I'm back up to 134 pounds. I HATE THIS. I am small framed and 10 or 15 pounds is very noticable on me. I look "chunky" as some people call it. Especially in my mid-section. I have noticed an appetite increase but I don't really over do it. I'm wondering if these meds cause a change in metabolism. Anyway, I understand your frustration and if you or anyone knows the solution please let me know.
Take care.
OCAngel
06-03-2003, 07:30 PM
Hi Trish,
It's such a coincidence that I have this note from you today. I notice you are in Orlando, and I happen to be in Orlando today!
It's such a coincidence that I have this note from you today. I notice you are in Orlando, and I happen to be in Orlando today!
Cloverstone
06-06-2003, 04:06 AM
**********
sunnycgb
06-06-2003, 04:36 PM
I have been on Celexa for two years and have gained 30 pounds. So now in addition to the issues I was already dealing with I now have to deal with feeling like I'm in someone else's body. I had some pictures developed yesterday and I could hardly recognize myself. I am still feeling depressed from seeing the pictures. I had a crying jag like I haven't had for quite some time. I have always dealt with depression since I was very young and have over the years learned to control my focus and thoughts in order to not let it get the best of me. In 1998 my brother-in-law who had been a part of my life since I was ten committed suicide. That was when I went on antidepressants for the first time. I took Paxil for six months, until I couldn't function from falling asleep - or passing out is how I would describe it. I went off of that cold turkey after my daughter was traumitized when she couldn't wake me up. I stayed off of them until late summer 2001 when I had another bout with depression that was interfering with ability to function. I have never had this type of weight issue before. My eating habits or physical activity have not changed enough to explain such a drastic weight gain in such a short period of time. So I have decided to go off of the medicine again, and hope that I can drop the weight. I got married last December and my husband is concerned, but says he supports me completely. He is going to be my exercise partner to try to counterbalance going off the medicine. Wish me luck, or better yet include me in your prayers! Thanks for listening. It really helped to read the other entries and know that I'm not alone in this struggle.
sunnycgb
06-06-2003, 04:42 PM
What are you using to get your liver back to normal?
Originally posted by Cloverstone:
This is in reply to OCAngel. I was on Paxil for 15 months and gained over 60 pounds. Sounds like I'm lazy, but I'm not. Prior to starting on my Paxil experience I weighed 110 pounds. I was very physically fit and ate sensibly. The weight gain happened all in the first 7 months. I visited my MD after the first 10 pounds, she then informed me that a little weight gain was a possible side effect. I didn't let it bother me too much. I continued vigorous daily activities but the weight kept coming. Finally at the 60 pound mark my MD suggested that I drastically change my eating habits, which I did. I managed to stop the weight gain but I also managed to stop eating. Continuing my with my daily physical fitness and fewer than 1000 calories a day for 8 months I did not lose a pound. I finally had it a few months ago and got off Paxil and haven't replaced it with anything. Being fat caused more depression then the original problems that I had. Now I am struggling to return my metabolism and my liver function back to normal and strive to be where I was before this nightmare began.
Originally posted by Cloverstone:
This is in reply to OCAngel. I was on Paxil for 15 months and gained over 60 pounds. Sounds like I'm lazy, but I'm not. Prior to starting on my Paxil experience I weighed 110 pounds. I was very physically fit and ate sensibly. The weight gain happened all in the first 7 months. I visited my MD after the first 10 pounds, she then informed me that a little weight gain was a possible side effect. I didn't let it bother me too much. I continued vigorous daily activities but the weight kept coming. Finally at the 60 pound mark my MD suggested that I drastically change my eating habits, which I did. I managed to stop the weight gain but I also managed to stop eating. Continuing my with my daily physical fitness and fewer than 1000 calories a day for 8 months I did not lose a pound. I finally had it a few months ago and got off Paxil and haven't replaced it with anything. Being fat caused more depression then the original problems that I had. Now I am struggling to return my metabolism and my liver function back to normal and strive to be where I was before this nightmare began.
Cloverstone
06-08-2003, 06:10 AM
**********
BrendaMK
06-23-2003, 05:19 PM
YES - I too have gained weight! I've always been a size 4-6. I had a 3rd baby, and never lost all the weight after this one. The only difference being that I was on Zoloft the entire pregnancy. I had gotten down to just 18 pounds from where I needed to be (when he was 2 years old) and later started Celexa. He's now 5 years old, and I've been consistently gaining on a slow, but very regular basis. I am now 45# above my normal! I've been positive it's the AD's, but this is the first time I've found anything to support it. I too have NEVER had to watch my weight in the past, and would never gain weight (except being pregnant of course). After I read this, I slowly tapered myself off. I never really thought I needed to be on them, and had actually been getting depressed becuae the weight keeps creeping up! i am now a plump size 12 and devastated and don't know what to do anymore! I don't know if it will EVER come off! And worse is, with all the extra weight, now I have even less energy available to exercise to get it off.
LowBudgetOprah
06-27-2003, 02:45 AM
Brenda, I am sorry you are going through the weight gain. It was so horrible for me! I also gained on Celexa. I was switched several times before finally ending up where I am now...on Wellbutrin and Topamax. I have found, in my experience (not everyone will respond the same) that the following anti-depressants cause weight gain: Celexa, Effexor/Venlafaxine, Buspar, Paxil, and Amitryptylline (sp?). I'm sure I have gained with others, but those listed have caused notable changes in my weight within a short period of time.
Now that weight loss surgery is covered by most insurances for individuals who are at least 75 lbs. overweight and/or have a BMI of 35 or more, we may begin to see some changes. I don't think that insurance companies will continue to dish out thousands of dollars per person for gastric bypass surgery because of anti-depressant weight gain. Sooner or later...probably sooner...the drug industry will have to revamp their anti-depressant lines.
Just a tip...good stock to buy right now (since this whole insurance-coverage-for-weight-loss-surgery thing just got off of the ground) is BioEnterics Lab, the manufacturers of the adjustable lap band, which is supposed to be much more effective than staples and can be done with minimal scarring. I think it is listed with NASDAQ under IMDC, can't remember the actual corporate name. Medicare will be covering this surgery as well as VA Hospitals, so lots of money will go into it. I think the stock will skyrocket in the next couple of years. But, I'm no financial analyst...I just play one on the internet. :D
Now that weight loss surgery is covered by most insurances for individuals who are at least 75 lbs. overweight and/or have a BMI of 35 or more, we may begin to see some changes. I don't think that insurance companies will continue to dish out thousands of dollars per person for gastric bypass surgery because of anti-depressant weight gain. Sooner or later...probably sooner...the drug industry will have to revamp their anti-depressant lines.
Just a tip...good stock to buy right now (since this whole insurance-coverage-for-weight-loss-surgery thing just got off of the ground) is BioEnterics Lab, the manufacturers of the adjustable lap band, which is supposed to be much more effective than staples and can be done with minimal scarring. I think it is listed with NASDAQ under IMDC, can't remember the actual corporate name. Medicare will be covering this surgery as well as VA Hospitals, so lots of money will go into it. I think the stock will skyrocket in the next couple of years. But, I'm no financial analyst...I just play one on the internet. :D
CRAZYGUY388
06-29-2003, 10:56 PM
OH GOD I AM TOO ON PAXIL MY MEDICAL DOCTOR PRESCRIBED IT TO ME 2 YEARS AGO HE SAID I WAS NERVOUS THERE I WAS THINKING FINALLY A CURE FOR BEING NERVOUS WELL I GAINED AT LEAST 55 POUNDS I WANT TO LOSE IT BUT I HAVE NO WILL POWER I EAT AND EAT AND EAT LOVE HOW THESE DOCTORS JUST LOVE TO WRITE PRESCRIPTIONS I TRIED GETTING OFF OF PAXIL AND BECAME VERY VERY DIZZY AND WIERD THINGS STARTED HAPPENING TO ME PLEASE HELP ME
JayLynne
10-06-2003, 10:07 PM
Thank goodness I found this website. I have been off Paxil for 18 months. The withdrawal, even though gradual, made me sicker than I have ever been in my life. I gained 30 pounds while on Paxil and have not been able to lose, no matter what I do. I walk 3 miles 3 days a week and 6 miles 2 days a week. Anyway, everybody at this site is familiar with this story. However, today I asked my doctor to prescribe 2 Valuim for a roundtrip flight, and he said it was better to start Buspar now and continue it through the trip, quitting when I returned home. He said, unlike Paxil, I could quit abruptly without problems. I asked about weight gain on the Buspar. He stated "no weight gain." HA! Same story the previous doctor who had prescribed Paxil gave me. DO THESE DOCTORS EVEN KNOW??? After reading postings from this web site, I wouldn't touch Buspar with a 10-foot pole. I'll take my chances with an anxiety attack in the air. The thought of gaining just another pound right now is too much. I can maintain 1200 calories a day and still not lose. I don't gain... but come on. I have never had a weight problem in my life until this and I have a feeling it is here to stay.
BethyM
10-07-2003, 11:59 PM
I have been on Zoloft for a month.....the second I start to gain weight, I will start weaning myself off...maybe its terrible and shallow, but if my body doesn't look and feel good, my mind doesn't feel good either...I only plan to be on the z for 6 months anyway, so maybe it won't be an issue
maskbloom
10-10-2003, 02:41 AM
I gained 50 lbs while taking Wellbutrin. And was told that MOST people lose weight while taking it.
I have not lost the weight yet either. And of course am more depressed now because of the weight gain.
I have been off it now for three months.
Everyone is different and reacts different to meds.
I have also talked to others who have gained weight while taking Wellbutrin but I don't think this is the norm.
Good Luck.
I have not lost the weight yet either. And of course am more depressed now because of the weight gain.
I have been off it now for three months.
Everyone is different and reacts different to meds.
I have also talked to others who have gained weight while taking Wellbutrin but I don't think this is the norm.
Good Luck.
JayLynne
10-10-2003, 12:11 PM
Hi CrazyGuy. I feel for you. Getting off Paxil is very difficult. You have to do it extremely slow. Cut your dosage back a few mgs at a time. Don't cut back by skipping doses such as taking it every other day. Cut back a few mgs and maintain that dosage for about a week before cutting back a few more. Maintain each cut back for a week. When you get to the point where your next cutback is as small as you can go, make sure you have a few days off (long weekend, etc.) If like me, you will be very flu like for a few days. My blood pressure even rised considerably. Stay in bed, drink lots of water -- treat yourself like you are sick because you are. You will get over it. The weight gain, however, is a completely different issue. I don't know what this stuff does to our metabolism, but it is serious. I have all but given up on any weight loss. Good luck to you. Originally posted by CRAZYGUY388:
OH GOD I AM TOO ON PAXIL MY MEDICAL DOCTOR PRESCRIBED IT TO ME 2 YEARS AGO HE SAID I WAS NERVOUS THERE I WAS THINKING FINALLY A CURE FOR BEING NERVOUS WELL I GAINED AT LEAST 55 POUNDS I WANT TO LOSE IT BUT I HAVE NO WILL POWER I EAT AND EAT AND EAT LOVE HOW THESE DOCTORS JUST LOVE TO WRITE PRESCRIPTIONS I TRIED GETTING OFF OF PAXIL AND BECAME VERY VERY DIZZY AND WIERD THINGS STARTED HAPPENING TO ME PLEASE HELP ME
OH GOD I AM TOO ON PAXIL MY MEDICAL DOCTOR PRESCRIBED IT TO ME 2 YEARS AGO HE SAID I WAS NERVOUS THERE I WAS THINKING FINALLY A CURE FOR BEING NERVOUS WELL I GAINED AT LEAST 55 POUNDS I WANT TO LOSE IT BUT I HAVE NO WILL POWER I EAT AND EAT AND EAT LOVE HOW THESE DOCTORS JUST LOVE TO WRITE PRESCRIPTIONS I TRIED GETTING OFF OF PAXIL AND BECAME VERY VERY DIZZY AND WIERD THINGS STARTED HAPPENING TO ME PLEASE HELP ME
bookmiser
10-20-2003, 10:20 PM
hi everyone,
i also have gained weight over the years. paxil is a very good anti-depressant, but i gained about 40lbs. while taking it (4 years). i've been on zoloft now for about 2 years and have still gained a few more pounds. i agree with hoosier, it's the mountain dew and inactivity. age is a factor too. so let's get off our butts and jog around the neighborhood. who's with me? that's what i thought. lol. talk atch ya'll later.
i also have gained weight over the years. paxil is a very good anti-depressant, but i gained about 40lbs. while taking it (4 years). i've been on zoloft now for about 2 years and have still gained a few more pounds. i agree with hoosier, it's the mountain dew and inactivity. age is a factor too. so let's get off our butts and jog around the neighborhood. who's with me? that's what i thought. lol. talk atch ya'll later.
HoosierBj
10-21-2003, 06:02 PM
Hey, I'm with ya on the exercise, Bookmiser...
We'll just start running and meet somewhere between Pennsylvania & Indiana!!
I may have some weight gain, but better that than the hellhole that was my depression, ya know??
[This message has been edited by HoosierBj (edited 10-21-2003).]
We'll just start running and meet somewhere between Pennsylvania & Indiana!!
I may have some weight gain, but better that than the hellhole that was my depression, ya know??
[This message has been edited by HoosierBj (edited 10-21-2003).]
bookmiser
10-21-2003, 11:54 PM
hoosier,
your right. there's nothing worse than depression. i have not smoked a cigarette in 3 months. that could also be a factor in my weight gain. anyway, my dad and stepmom lived in sunman, indiana for many years. have ya heard of it? they had to sell their home after my dad had a stroke and had to be put into a nursing home in northern ky. to be near my sibs. i really loved what you wrote about your dad. i miss my dad and don't get to see him as much as i would like. maybe every 4 months or so. he has suffered alot from his stroke and also diabetes. lost part of a leg because of the diabetes. nice talkin atcha.
your right. there's nothing worse than depression. i have not smoked a cigarette in 3 months. that could also be a factor in my weight gain. anyway, my dad and stepmom lived in sunman, indiana for many years. have ya heard of it? they had to sell their home after my dad had a stroke and had to be put into a nursing home in northern ky. to be near my sibs. i really loved what you wrote about your dad. i miss my dad and don't get to see him as much as i would like. maybe every 4 months or so. he has suffered alot from his stroke and also diabetes. lost part of a leg because of the diabetes. nice talkin atcha.
bookmiser
10-21-2003, 11:56 PM
sorry. double post
[This message has been edited by bookmiser (edited 10-21-2003).]
[This message has been edited by bookmiser (edited 10-21-2003).]
iluvcoffee
05-12-2006, 05:39 PM
I gained 20 pounds on LEXAPRO and it caused me to have Chronic fatique. The doctor has me weaning myself off of it now and I feel so much better, more energy but I still cant get the weight off no matter what I do!! I excercise like there is no tomorrow and I eat like a bird! Yes this is the medication that the doctor said WOULD NOT cause weight gain. Dont ya hate em?
x3_andme
05-26-2006, 01:02 AM
I was on Avanza and gained 12kg (26lbs) in two months.
iluvcoffee
05-29-2006, 12:06 PM
I agree~ Doctors always tell you that its not the meds that are making you gain wieght. My doctor told me that I wont have withdrawals when I wean off of the Lexapro. Well he was wrong there! I have weaning off for a month now and the dizzy spells and brain zaps are very difficult. I still have the weight gain, but I feel wonderful off of the Lexapro! I beleive it had a negative effect on me. I dont have chronic fatigue anymore and I can sleep............
Jules72
06-07-2006, 11:56 AM
I just started on Paxil CR and from what I have read this med causes weight gain. I do not want to gain weight. I was on Prozac for years and never gained weight. Is there anyone in these boards that did not gain weight on antidepressants. I also feel jittery more than before and that is why I am taking this. I read scare stories about going off Paxil. This is my first week on 12.5 and I am considering going off it before the dose is increased to 20. I know you have to try different meds before the right one works. Has anyone had good results with this drug? By that I mean no weight gain and the jittery feeling going away. I also have a headache. This is all discouraging. Has anyone taken another antidepressant that works well without the side effects? I would appreciate answers before I take too many Paxil CR since I have read that the withdrawal is terrible. New to this board....Thank you.
jojo
06-07-2006, 09:02 PM
Paxil is a very bad anitdepressant..My x was on it and he got sooooooo out there...I was on it for a little bit got off of it right away...I know of someone that was on it and got very suicidal!!!! Maybe try zoloft...I have been on so many and now I am on something natural, and it works so much better...
Good Luck....
p.s. with any antidepressant you really, really need to wean off of them...
:angel:
Good Luck....
p.s. with any antidepressant you really, really need to wean off of them...
:angel:
trg247
06-08-2006, 12:45 AM
All medications have risks and side effects, Effexor and Paxil have brutal reputations but they have helped a lot of people. The only med that has fewer side effects is wellbutrin
take care
trg247
take care
trg247