Which antidepressant is most likely to cause weight gain?

As a mental health professional with expertise in pharmacology, I can provide you with information on this topic. It's important to note that individual responses to medications can vary widely, and not everyone will experience weight gain as a side effect. However, some antidepressants are more commonly associated with weight gain than others. Among the various classes of antidepressants, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and atypical antidepressants like mirtazapine are often cited as having a higher likelihood of causing weight gain. TCAs, such as amitriptyline and imipramine, can increase appetite and lead to weight gain in some individuals. Mirtazapine, in particular, is known for its sedating effects and appetite stimulation, which can contribute to weight gain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can also cause weight gain, but the effects are generally less pronounced compared to TCAs and mirtazapine. That being said, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience weight gain with these medications as well. It's crucial for patients and healthcare providers to work together to monitor for any changes in weight and to discuss strategies for managing potential weight gain, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity.

Conversely, he says that one of the antidepressants that seems most likely to cause weight gain is Paxil, an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Of the other SSRIs, which include Prozac, Lexapro and Celexa, Zoloft may be least likely to cause weight gain.