Does Effexor Cause Weight Gain? Is it a Common Side Effect?

Weight gain is a common concern during antidepressant therapy. Studies have shown that patients on any of the 12 most commonly prescribed antidepressants were 21% more likely to experience weight gain compared to non-users. This side effect prompts patients to discontinue their medication.

Effexor is a widely prescribed antidepressant known for its effectiveness in managing various mental health conditions. However, many patients express concerns about potential weight gain while on this medication. So, the question arises: Does Effexor cause weight gain?

Read on to learn more about the relationship between Effexor and weight gain and strategies for managing weight while on medication.

Table Of Contents:

• Effexor Overview
• Does Effexor Cause Weight Gain or Loss?
• Why Does Effexor Cause Weight Gain?
• How to Stop Effexor Weight Gain?
• Other Side Effects of Effexor
• Effexor Alternatives
• Does Effexor Cause You To Gain Weight? − Final Key Points
• People Also Ask

Effexor Overview

Effexor, also known by its generic name venlafaxine, is an FDA-approved prescription medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social phobia.

Effexor is an antidepressant known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). By increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters in the brain that help maintain mental balance, Effexor can improve mood and energy levels and motivate patients in their daily lives.

Effexor is available in two forms:

• Effexor standard tablet form is usually taken two or three times a day with food.
• Effexor XR extended-release forms for once-daily dosing and slow release to minimize side effects.

Does Effexor Cause Weight Gain or Loss?

Studies show mixed results regarding weight gain while taking Effexor. A few have reported small weight loss in patients, just about 1.3% of the population examined.

On the other hand, weight gain is the commonly reported side effect of many antidepressants, which we know can significantly impact medication adherence and the treatment experience for patients. Yet, not all antidepressants cause the same impact on body weight over time.

A study presented at ObesityWeek® in 2023 compared selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and mirtazapine against tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin modulators, and bupropion. Findings revealed that SSRIs, SNRIs, and mirtazapine might lead to more significant weight gain over 24 months than their counterparts.

Since Effexor (venlafaxine) is an SNRI and falls into the category of antidepressants associated with a higher risk of weight gain, according to the study, we can say Effexor can cause weight gain in some individuals.

Why Does Effexor Cause Weight Gain?

Another study highlighted a case where two patients experienced a notable weight gain two weeks after beginning venlafaxine treatment without any change in appetite. Upon discontinuing venlafaxine, the weight quickly returned to normal.

Considering this case and the background evidence of antidepressant weight gain, a question arises: how does Effexor cause weight gain?

First, it’s important to note that the link between Effexor and weight gain isn’t very clear, and responses to the medication can vary widely among individuals. The reasons for this side effect can include the following factors:

Changes in Appetite

Effexor can influence neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play roles in mood regulation and appetite control.

Alterations in these neurotransmitter levels can lead to increased appetite or changes in food preferences. Evidence suggests that antidepressants heighten cravings for carbohydrates or sugary foods (e.g., pasta, bread, and desserts), which can contribute to weight gain.

Fluid Retention

This is a case of a woman who, two weeks after beginning venlafaxine treatment, experienced a notable weight gain of 33 pounds (15 kg) along with noticeable swelling, especially in her legs and hands. However, it affected nearly her entire body without changing her appetite. Upon discontinuing venlafaxine, her weight quickly returned to normal within a week.

This evidence shows Effexor can cause some individuals to retain water, leading to edema (swelling) in the legs, arms, and other body parts. This can result in a rapid increase in weight, which might be mistaken for fat gain.

Reduced Physical Activity

While Effexor can help improve mood and energy for many people, others might experience fatigue as a side effect. Reduced energy levels can lead to decreased physical activity, contributing to weight gain by reducing the number of calories burned daily.

Improvement in Symptoms

Improvements in depression symptoms with Effexor treatment might lead to a normalization of eating habits for some individuals. This can lead to weight gain if the calorie intake exceeds what is necessary for maintaining their current weight.

How to Stop Effexor Weight Gain?

While there is no guaranteed way to completely stop weight gain associated with Effexor, there are strategies you can explore with your doctor to manage it.

Here are some approaches to consider:

• Focus on a healthy, balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Discuss your weight gain concerns with your doctor.
• Manage your calorie intake with the help of a registered dietitian.
• Regularly monitoring your weight can help you adjust your approach.
• Drinking plenty of water can help reduce fluid retention.

Other Side Effects of Effexor

Besides gaining weight, Effexor causes a series of adverse effects, the most common including:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Weakness (asthenia)
• Sexual dysfunction
• Increased blood pressure
• Low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia)
• Weight loss (reported in 11% of users)
• Serotonin syndrome and seizures (severe)

Be aware that suddenly discontinuing venlafaxine can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, headaches, sweating, dizziness, sensations of tingling or “pins and needles,” shaking, confusion, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Effexor Alternatives

If you find that Effexor isn’t the right medication for you, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider and let them guide you toward a medication that suits your needs.

Here are some alternative options:

• If you are concerned about weight gain, Bupropion (Wellbutrin) can be an alternative option.
• SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and citalopram (Celexa).
• Other SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) or desvenlafaxine (Pristiq).
• Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are proven to be beneficial.

Does Effexor Cause You To Gain Weight? − Final Key Points

Effexor is prescribed for depression and anxiety, and while weight gain is a possible side effect, it doesn’t affect everyone.

Factors like a sedentary lifestyle and smoking can also contribute to this side effect. However, you can take steps to manage your weight, such as following a healthy diet and staying active. By discussing this with your doctor, planning, and embracing a healthy lifestyle, you can minimize the risk of weight gain and keep Effexor as your mental health medication.

People Also Ask

Do antidepressants make you gain weight?

Antidepressants can lead to weight gain in some people, but the effect varies depending on the type of medication, individual metabolism, lifestyle factors, and how long the medication is taken.

Does Effexor cause you to gain weight?

Effexor can cause weight gain in some individuals, but the factors remain unclear. Aspects like dosage, treatment duration, and lifestyle also significantly influence weight changes.

Will I lose weight off Effexor?

Some users may experience weight loss after stopping Effexor, as 11% report weight loss due to decreased appetite while on the medication. However, individual results can vary.

Page Sources

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