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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 4 of 4. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by ParkWood on August 31, 2005, at 11:14:04
Hi,
I've seen many threads regarding the weight gain issues and have gained over 40 lbs. that will not come off. It started with Paxil, then I switched to Effexor and when that didn't help, I quit taking the meds only to have more severe panic attacks than before, so I switched docs and she prescribed Lexapro in which I gained an additional 10 lbs. but am afraid to get off the meds for fear of the panic attacks.
Pls anyone who has had any success in losing weight while staying on the meds, any suggestions will do. I have done the low calorie diets, the low carb diets, the no carb diets, I still exercise regularly and nothing has worked at all! I am very committed when I start the diet and stay on it for at least three months, but none have worked.
As shallow as this sounds, I cannot even look at myself in the mirror and can't believe the change in peoples attitudes when you appear overweight. This has now brought on a whole new problem of depression! I think about it all the time, dream about it, live it, can't take it! I do have a therapist and that helps but I don't want to stay this way, please help!
Thanx.
Posted by Meri-Tuuli on August 31, 2005, at 16:24:25
In reply to Weight Gain; Lexapro, Effexor, Paxil, posted by ParkWood on August 31, 2005, at 11:14:04
Hey there!
Well I know what it feels not to look in the mirror because of the weight the ADs make you put on. But anyway I managed to lose about 5kgs (~11 lbs I think) in like six weeks on an online diet group when i was on celexa - they make you input every single calorie you eat over the day. I planned my meals and ate roughly 1200 cals a day. I didn't even exercise. The thing is, you really have to input EVERTHING that passes your lips.
And I have to say it works - the more calories you eat that you don't burn off, the more weight you put on, regardless of whether you're on ADs or not. The same the other way too. Its just the ADs make you feel less full, give you more apetite, cravings etc.
Its tough isn't it. You go on the ADs to relieve the depression, only to find you gain weight - which in itself causes you to feel more depressed!
Another thing you might consider is exercise - and proper aerobic exercise. It also has AD effects as well as burning cals.
Take care,
Meri
x
Posted by Emily Elizabeth on August 31, 2005, at 16:46:08
In reply to Re: Weight Gain; Lexapro, Effexor, Paxil, posted by Meri-Tuuli on August 31, 2005, at 16:24:25
In many ways I'm the wrong person to ask about this, but I have 2 suggestions.
1. Have you had your thyroid levels checked? My guess is that you and/or your doc thought of thise already, but just in case...
2. Go to a nutritionist. Often this is covered by insurance. They can help you with planning meals so that you get enough protien, vitamins, etc. so that you have energy and feel satisfied--something that doesn't always happen when you are just dieting. They also can help you figure out what you need in terms of calories based on your level of activity. I haven't done this, but know a few people that have found it helpful.
Best,
EE
Posted by Phillipa on August 31, 2005, at 19:42:08
In reply to Re: Weight Gain; Lexapro, Effexor, Paxil, posted by Emily Elizabeth on August 31, 2005, at 16:46:08
You also have to be careful not to eat too little. This slows down your metabolism. And the biggest meal of the day should be breakfast. And 5 small meals a day helps to. Always include a little protein to stabalize your blood sugar. I relate as I've gained l0 lbs in the last year but i think it's menopausal and less activity. Fondly, Phillipa
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