As a human, we like to look slim-trim but due to some circumstances, our bodies change shape and gain an amount of weight. In these circumstances, one of the common options is Lexapro, which is basically a medicine used to suppress depression and anxiety. According to the medical term, it can create problems such as weight gain.
Through the article, we will probe into why does lexapro cause weight gain, side effects and methods to avoid weight gain.
Why Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?
According to the medical term, the exact mechanism behind the potential weight gain caused by medications like Lexapro (escitalopram) is not fully understood under natural circumstances. Lexapro is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
There are a few theories about why some individuals experience weight gain while taking SSRIs like Lexapro:
- Appetite and Cravings: Some people may experience changes in appetite and cravings while taking Lexapro. The medication could potentially influence the neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate hunger and satiety, leading to increased appetite and a higher intake of calories.
- Metabolism: There’s some evidence to suggest that certain SSRIs might affect metabolism and how the body processes energy. Changes in metabolism could contribute to weight gain over time.
- Serotonin and Mood Regulation: SSRIs work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation. Serotonin also has an impact on other bodily functions, including appetite and digestion. It’s possible that alterations in serotonin levels caused by the medication could indirectly affect weight.
- Fluid Retention: Some individuals may experience fluid retention as a side effect of SSRIs, which can contribute to temporary weight gain.
- Individual Variation: People react differently to medications, and genetic factors could play a role in determining how a person’s body responds to Lexapro. Genetic differences could influence how the medication affects appetite, metabolism, and other related factors.
Does Lexapro Weight Gain Go Away?
Weight gain is a latent aftereffect of many antidepressant prescriptions, including Lexapro (escitalopram). Some humans may encounters weight gain while taking Lexapro, but it’s mandatory to heed that not everyone will have this aftertaste. The extent of weight gain can diverge from person to person, and some individuals may not undergo any remarkable weight variations while taking Lexapro.
Scarcely, the weight gain associated with Lexapro might be non-permanent and could go away on its own over time. However, for others, the weight gain might persist as long as they keep on taking the medicament. It’s also worth mentioning that lifestyle factors, for instance diet and physical activity, can influence weight varies while on antidepressants.
How to Avoid Gaining Weight on Lexapro?
Weight gain is a powerful aftereffect of Lexapro (escitalopram. However, not everyone who takes Lexapro will encounter weight gain, and there are steps you can take to minimize the probability of plump up while on this medication. It’s mandatory to note that you should never make any alteration to your medicament regimen without consulting your doctor. Here are some tips to contemplate:
- Discuss your troubles with your doctor: If you’re worried about prospective weight gain while taking Lexapro, it’s essential to have an open and honest conversation with your prescribing doctor. They can supply instruction and observe your progress.
- Monitor your diet: Pay close heeding to your eating habits and piece sizes. Consider keeping a food diary to mark your seven-day intake. This can aid you identify any changes in your eating patterns that might support to weight gain.
- Choose a balanced diet: Concentrate on a proper diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Restrict your consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-calorie snacks.
- Stay active: Systematic exercise can aid avert weight gain and ameliorate your total well-being. Train for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per seven-days, as recommended by health authorities.
- Incorporate strength training: Structuring muscle through strength training exercises can uplift your metabolism, which can help counteract potential weight gain.
- Be cognizant of portion sizes: Concentrate on portion sway, and avoid eating when you’re not hungry. Eating mindfully can aid avert overeating.
- Stay hydrated: Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to aid sway your craving.
- Restrict alcohol consumption: Alcohol is calorie-dense and can head towards to weight gain. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.
- Handle stress: Lexapro is frequently suggested for anxiety and depression, so it’s crucial to address these underlying issues.
- Regular check-ins: Keep in touch with your doctor for regular check-ups and to discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.
- Consider alternatives: If weight gain becomes a significant issue for you and other strategies aren’t successful, discuss alternative medicament or treatment options with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your treatment plan to minimize aftereffects.
Lexapro side effects weight gain
Lexapro (escitalopram) is a naturally suggested medicament that relates to a family of antidepressants counted as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is firstly utilized to handle depression and anxiety disorders. Like any medicament, Lexapro can have possible aftereffects. Not everyone will face the issues, and their severity can differ from person to person. It’s mandatory to confer any troubles or natural side effetcs with your healthcare expert before commencing or pausing any medicament. Here are some ordinary after effects linked with Lexapro:
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sexual dysfunction, for instance decreased libido or struggling attaining orgasm
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Dizziness
Less Common Side Effects:
- Gastrointestinal issues, for instance diarrhea or constipation
- Tremors or shaking
- Variations in taste
- Vision changes
- Muscle tension or stiffness
- Yawning
- Inclined or declined blood pressure
Acute Side Effects (Rare, but Mandatory to Monitor):
- Serotonin syndrome: This is a possibly lethal syndrome that can transpire when there’s immoderate serotonin in the brain. Signs may incorporate confusion, abrupt heartbeat, high fever, hallucinations, loss of coordination, and unpredictable nausea or vomiting.
- Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, critical dizziness, and struggling in breathing are indications of an allergic reaction.
- Suicidal thoughts: SSRIs like Lexapro can sometimes enhance the odd of suicidal thoughts, explicitly in young adults. It’s important to monitor for variations in mood or behavior when commencing a new medication.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Pausing Lexapro unexpectedly can head towards withdrawal symptoms for instance irritability, mood swings, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms. It’s generally recommended to gradually taper off the medicine under supervision.
- Long-Term Effects: Long-term use of Lexapro may be bound with some intolerable effects on bone health, but the peril and profits should be conferred with a healthcare expert.
Conclusion
Through our blog, we covered numerous topics such as does lexapro cause weight gain, how to avoid gaining weight and much more. All of these topics are crucial to gain detailed knowledge about lexapro and its side effects.
Hope through our words, we were able to solve the mystery behind this medicine and be able to provide you the complete detail.
Frequently Asked Question
Q1: Can Lexapro cause anxiety?
Ans: Yes, it is a possible side effect.
Q2: Can you drink alcohol while taking Lexapro?
Ans: It is generally not recommended, as alcohol can worsen some of the side effects of Lexapro.
Q3: How long does it take for Lexapro to work?
Ans: It can take several weeks to notice the full benefits of Lexapro.
Q4: Is it safe to stop taking Lexapro cold turkey?
Ans: No, abruptly stopping Lexapro can cause withdrawal symptoms and should be done under medical supervision.
Q5: Can Lexapro cause sexual side effects?
Ans: Yes, it is a possible side effect and can include decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction.
