Weight gain on Escitalopram

[xxoverworkedandanxiousxx]

Hi all,

I have suffered hugely with anxiety, health anxiety, intrusive thoughts and depression ever since the birth of my first child 11 years ago. I had a traumatic pregnancy and think I have a bit of PTSD. I have tried CBT over the years which hasn't been helpful, I have tried meditation, exercise etc and all work for a little bit but then i slip into an 'episode' which can last months. I have self diagnosed myself with multiple diseases and it ruins my life.

I have tried a few different antidepressants, Citlaopram didn't work even on 40mg, Sertraline made me suicidal and I have now been put on Escitalopram 4 months ago. Mentally I feel great, quite calm BUT I have put on 2 stones in that time. I am hungry ALL THE TIME. I already struggle with my weight and have an underactive thyroid which i am medicated for but this weight gain is really getting me down. I have gone from a 14 to a size 16-18 and I feel disgusting. I am trying to make better food choices but I can't believe how hungry I am.

I am debating going back to the GP to try and change it

Has anyone else had this?

Ah that's so hard when you find a drug that works. I had this with mirtazipine but remained on it for 2 years because it worked so well. I also gained at least 2 stone. At the 2 year point I felt stable enough to wean myself off, however, I was also on citalopram so this made it slightly easier. Three months down and I have lost 10kg, I do feel much better for this weight loss but still have a way to go.
Speak to your GP as I am sure you know anti depressants should never just be stopped. How is your mental health currently?

Hey there,
I hope that you get the help that you need, and some more relevant advice on the medications you are taking.

On a slight tangent, if you have the time and the energy, please watch Georgia Ede on YouTube, if you search 'Georgia Ede PHC' you should get one of her UK based talks as the first result.
She is a US psychiatrist who discusses the links between diet and brain/mental health. I read her book and I wish I had learned this all sooner.
Best of luck to you.