I have been on a lot of medicines over the years but none, except perhaps high doses of Prednisone, has caused as much weight gain as Paxil ( Paroxetine Hydrochloride Oral tablet). I weighed in at 143lbs a few days ago. The curious part is that I have actually been eating healthier over the last year, with more fresh vegetables and fruits, fish and hardly any meat since I saw Food Inc..
As I research and talk to others, I find that this particular Anti-depressant is a weight magnet. I believe this because I have been on other ones and this is the only one that made me look like the Pillsbury Dough Boy! The first one that I tried made me shake and talk to myself, the second one just didn’t do much and this one, well gain 12 pounds! I didn’t even get to eat a lot of sweets for the holidays thanks to gluten and fatness. Not fair!
Looking in to the side effects for Paxil, I see on the list that does not require medical attention weight, headaches and drowsiness to name a few. I really think that I would rather panic when I get lost and feel sad than not be able to breath in my pants because they are so tight. I did tell one of my physicians about this and he wants me to wait a month. In a month, I will not fit into any of my clothes!
What type of anti-depressant are you taking and what do you think? Is it worth it? Do they help you?