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What causes weight gain on mirtazapine and what are close alternatives?

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amanda69149
amanda69149

I've gained about 15lbs in about 2 months and no amount of any type of diet and exercise seems to stop it from putting on pounds. I'm someone who always struggled with gaining weight and I was curious why I can't seem to get mirtazapine to stop putting on weight, is it just increased appetite or could it be from water retention or slowed metabolism? I've been dieting quite a bit so I don't feel like increased appetite is the only thing causes issues.

Also, I've reached out to my psychiatrist about starting a different medication (I'm taking mirtazapine for anxiety and depression) and I was wondering if anyone has had any luck with a similar medication. So far, mirtazapine has worked the best for anxiety/depression as I have bad reactions to SSRIs. I'm sure my psychiatrist has alternatives but I would like to do some research on other meds before I speak with him.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • jean47709
    jean47709 amanda69149

    Edited

    Mirtizapine is very good for anxiety and depression. When I was on mirt I gained a lot of weight. It seemed to creep on. As with you, you nothing would shift it. I also found that I seemingly was unable to control my portions and was always wanting to eat something even if I wasn't hungry. Weight Watchers was some help but alas when I stopped going I put the weight back on. I also had a terrible craving for sweets. Fortunately when I went off Mirt the weight dropped off. Now have withdrawal symptoms (another story). I was going to try a naturopath for help but haven't been yet. They may also be able to offer some weight advice. I will still go for general health and sleeping problems when Covid virus is under control. I do hope that you are able to find something that works for you. All the Best

    • amanda69149
      amanda69149 jean47709

      Posted

      Thanks for your reply! It's nice to know I'm not alone with this issue, I'm currently suspecting water retention is playing a role as well, hopefully this is something I can figure out. Good luck to you!

  • dennis45764
    dennis45764 amanda69149

    Edited

    Hi Amanda,

    I took Mirt for 3week ago and dont have weight gain problem because i go for regular exercise.The medication cause me to get worse anxiety and depression.Now i have switch to vortioxetine and my anxiety and depression under control.I have bought mirt for 3month supply and now i don't know how ? Anyone interested to buy mirt?I sell at half price .

  • gillian62018
    gillian62018 amanda69149

    Edited

    It's definitely not just about what you eat. I don't understand the mechanics of it either (different studies say different things) but I calorie counted before and during Mirt and despite eating no differently gained two stone (28 pounds) within 6 months, having been the same size (119 pounds) my whole adult life. It's such a shame because in so many other ways it is a great drug - I'm sure one day in the future they will find out some way to improve it. Unfortunately I don't know of any other alternatives as it's really in a class of its own. I did manage to lose about 5 or 6 pounds with being SUPER careful with what I ate, but it's very hard. I once heard someone describe it as "pouring water out of a boat with a hole in the bottom" and thought that summed it up pretty well! Good luck xx

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