dropping the Effexor/Lexapro weight gain

[bubeleh]

Can anyone give me an idea of how long it usually takes for your metabolism to recalibrate after stopping Effexor and/or Lexapro?  I've gained significant weight while on these drugs (despite an intense exercise program and careful diet).  My nutritionist and MD told me that the drugs likely altered my metabolism, but no one can tell me how long it will take to correct that.  Most frustrating, I've noticed that since I stopped taking both, my weight gain has accelerated.  Any ideas as to how long I need to endure this or ideas for correcting my metabolism?  Thanks.

[imanonymous]

I was on Paxil then Lexapro for over 2 years and gained about 40 lbs.  I started because I was depressed.  Now I am fat, too.  And I have never had a weight problem before.  I am finally off and hoping that I can lose some of this weight.  If anyone has a success story about losing weight after quitting lexapro, please post it.  I could use one.

[chandagurrl]

I am 24 with no previous weight gain issues. I was 138 before i got on lexapro in dec of 05 i am now 155 and totally upset. i did not know that weight gain was a side effect that goes along with this drug. I have really bad agoraphobia nd panic disorder and the medicine has helped me alot but being overeight isnt something i wanted. i am going to talk to my doc on wed and ask him to start tapering me off my 10 mg doses a day.
good luck with all ur battles!!

[daiseymae88]

I too have been on Lexapro for about a year or so now.  About 6 months ago, they increased my dosage. My weight's been going up (and I exercise severl times a week).  Somehow tonight (that's why I was searching out lexapro and weight gain)I just mentioned the lexapro to my trainer.  They advised that they have several clients on lexapro that are having the same trouble with weight gain.

They seem to think that it may have something to do limiting the control we have over our intake.  I just know I've been spinning in circles.

[Cris74]

hi my name is cristina...i'm 32 mom of 2 and before effexor i was completely "out of control". i was really nervous, had panic attacks, was bad with my kids and hubby....i've been on it for over 2 years and it really saved my life. i'm another person today..IN EVERY WAY! I GAINED 60 POUNDS since i've been on these medications! i'm trying to stop taking them now ( although i get withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, ecc ) because if i continue i'm afraid that sooner or later i'll explode! please...if anyone finds out how to stop all this weight gain..tell me! i'm on a diet : nothing -  i go to the gym : nothing. i'm desperate!!!!!!!!!

pls help!


Cris

[indrisek]

question guys--
From this strand there certainly seems to be an agreement that Lexapro indeed causes weight gain, despite being labeled "weight neutral."

My question:
Anyone have thoughts on which is WORSE in this regard, Paxil or Lexapro?

[CampOne]

I will tell you that I was told the same thing about the Leaxapro not making you gain weight -- that it's feeling better -- it's NOT true.

I do feel better finally but if I forget to take a Lexapro, I get the nausea, etc. and I have been on it 2 years with a weight gain of 40+ pounds!

I ran a marathon in 2000 and now I walk/jog 3 miles 3-5 days a week and stick to an 1800 calorie diet -- so what's up!