Posted by Cam W. on March 17, 2000, at 20:28:18
In reply to Effexor and weight gain, posted by tmac on March 17, 2000, at 16:34:12
tmac - Weight gain with antidepressants that block serotonin reuptake seems to be more common than the literature would lead you to believe. Eating a balanced diet and exercising may help to keep weight off. Psychotherapy may help with the depression. It is always easier to avoid weight gain than to lose it once it has been gained. Stimulant diet pills can help and also may interfere with (or perhaps augment - depends upon which stimulant) antidepressant effect, but because of concerns of heart problems I would not recommend using them. Topamax, an anticonvulsant/mood stabilizer, can induce weight loss in many people, but this drug does have profound effects on mood and can cause some cognitions problems. Have your wife try the non-drug ways of weight loss (psychotherapy, diet and exercise) first. Also, have her ask her doctor if he/she has any suggestions. It would be a shame to stop using an effective medication, as they are often hard to find. The important thing is that the PPD is treated; for her sake and the well being of the baby (also for your well being). She may have to try an antidepressant that isn't as likely to induce weight gain (eg Wellbutrin). She has to talk this over with her doc and come to her own informed decision. Sincerely - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:27368
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000312/msgs/27395.html