Paxil and Weight Gain

[pitterpatdog]

I have been on Paxil for about 9 years now and have noticed a slow increase in my weight.  I do drink 5 - 6 glasses of red wine per week, so I haven't been sure if the weight gain is from alcohol, or from Paxil.  One thing I have directly related to Paxil is my increased hunger.  I am always hungery and it is really irritating.  I am very lucky that I have only gained 10-15 lbs and am still at a healthy weight for my 5'2 frame (124 lbs) but it ***** being hungry all the time and having extra weight!   My doctor told me that weight gain is a side effect of Paxil so I am going to try Zoloft.  I have an anxeity disorder that triggers OCD and Paxil has worked very very well and given me a great life since being on it.   I figure I should try something different to see if it helps the weight gain and if Zoloft doesn't work, or help me to lose the weight then I will have to cut off the wine and go back on Paxil.    Suffering from Anxiety *****, but I would take the weight gain over feeling freaky all the time!   I will check back after a few months of being on Zoloft to report on the changes.  

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

That sounds like very good solution.  You might ask your doctor for Prozac since that is the only antidepressant that does not cause weight gain.

[Paxiled]

Keep in mind you could gain weight on Zoloft or any ssri, and your weight gain on Paxil has been minimal -- I gained 50 pounds over several years on it.  And be careful going off it, it can be difficult.  Do it slowly and carefully.