Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Does Fluoxetine Cause Weight Gain?

Hello, I am wondering if fluoxetine is related to weight gain. I am 67 and have been taking 10 mg daily for probably 10 years. I initially took it for depression and my doctor has kept me on it simply to jump start me and more as a preventive. I have not felt depressed in several years, life is good, and I know how to handle it if I start to feel like there s a problem. I have gained 15 pounds in the last five years and am struggling to lose it. I eat healthy (but probably too much!) and exercise regularly (walk, swim, dance). Thank you!
Fri, 7 Oct 2016
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Yes, fluoxetine can cause weight gain if used for an extended period of time. As you don’t have any problem in your life, you can stop it now. But before stopping it, consult your psychiatrist because abrupt stoppage of fluoxetine can cause sudden exacerbation of symptoms of depression. Therefore, stoppage under medical supervision by psychiatrist is the next step. Weight can be lost by natural ways and diet. Sedentary lifestyle and improper dietary habits also contribute to weight gain.
Advice
1.     Exercise – start workout in gym at least for half an hour for 4 – 5 days in a week regularly. Start with a balanced mix of cardio, weight training and flexibility exercises
2.     Avoid eating high energy foods such as cakes, chocolates, chips etc.
3.     Avoid alcohol and smoking
4.     Increase consumption of high fiber diet such as wheat bread, dry date, vegetables etc
5.     Drink 3 – 4 liters of water daily
6.     Chew the food properly to make it easily digestible
7.     Avoid excess intake tea and coffee after meal
8.     Divide your meals into smaller portions and eat them frequently during the day
9.     Avoid oily & spicy food
10.     Investigation – lipid profile
I hope this information will help you. I will be happy if you ask another question
Thanks
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Does Fluoxetine Cause Weight Gain?

Yes, fluoxetine can cause weight gain if used for an extended period of time. As you don’t have any problem in your life, you can stop it now. But before stopping it, consult your psychiatrist because abrupt stoppage of fluoxetine can cause sudden exacerbation of symptoms of depression. Therefore, stoppage under medical supervision by psychiatrist is the next step. Weight can be lost by natural ways and diet. Sedentary lifestyle and improper dietary habits also contribute to weight gain. Advice 1. Exercise – start workout in gym at least for half an hour for 4 – 5 days in a week regularly. Start with a balanced mix of cardio, weight training and flexibility exercises 2. Avoid eating high energy foods such as cakes, chocolates, chips etc. 3. Avoid alcohol and smoking 4. Increase consumption of high fiber diet such as wheat bread, dry date, vegetables etc 5. Drink 3 – 4 liters of water daily 6. Chew the food properly to make it easily digestible 7. Avoid excess intake tea and coffee after meal 8. Divide your meals into smaller portions and eat them frequently during the day 9. Avoid oily & spicy food 10. Investigation – lipid profile I hope this information will help you. I will be happy if you ask another question Thanks