Scientists at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care found that the antidepressant bupropion is less likely to cause weight gain than other such drugs. Research results published In the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.
For the study, researchers analyzed electronic medical record data on antidepressant prescriptions from 183,118 adult volunteers ages 18 to 80.
The research team compared participants’ weights at six, 12, and 24 months after starting sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), bupropion (Wellbutrin), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and venlafaxine (Effexor).
Results showed that subjects had a 15% higher risk of gaining weight six months after starting treatment with paroxetine, duloxetine or escitalopram than participants given sertraline. Those taking venlafaxine or citalopram were also found to be more likely to gain weight.
Scientists noted that people prescribed fluoxetine did not experience noticeable weight changes after six months of treatment. Those least likely to gain weight were assigned to bupropion.
Weight change is one of the possible (and relatively common) side effects of taking antidepressants, according to the researchers. The scientists suggested that the severity of this effect may vary depending on the specific drug. The authors of the study hope that their findings will encourage more careful prescribing of antidepressants.
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Source: Gazeta
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