Can Taking Zoloft Cause Weight Gain?

Posted on Wed, 17 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 Answered on

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi! I started zoloft 2 months ago, and i have sadly gained 6 lbs in this time. I have not changed any of my eating habits and exercise routine, I believe this is just from the medication itself. It somehow seems to make me retain a lot of water, and i am puffy and very bloated. Please help. Do you have any ideas on something I can do or take to make this better?
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

Zoloft can sometimes cause weight gain, rarely more than 5 pounds. However, this weight gain can be effectively managed with diet and exercise. I recommend decreasing your caloric intake, and exercising at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week. If you do these things, I would expect the weight to come off.

Dr. Sheppe

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee