Search Here

New research suggests that bupropion, a widely used antidepressant, may lead to less weight gain compared to other first-line medications like sertraline.

Antidepressants are crucial treatments, with 14% of U.S. adults using them, but weight gain remains a common concern, impacting long-term health and treatment adherence. While most antidepressants are associated with weight gain, the study highlights varying effects among different medications.

Led by researchers from the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, the study offers insights into weight outcomes among 183,118 adults aged 18-80 who initiated antidepressant therapy.

Lead author Joshua Petimar emphasized the practical implications, saying: "This study provides important real-world evidence regarding the amount of weight gain that should be expected after starting some of the most common antidepressants. Clinicians and patients can use this information, among other factors, to help decide on the right choice for them."

Utilizing data from PCORnet, a national research network, the study simulated a rigorous trial to compare weight changes among eight antidepressants: sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion, duloxetine, and venlafaxine over 24 months. Bupropion consistently showed the least weight gain, with users 15-20% less likely to gain a clinically significant amount compared to sertraline, Medical Xpress pointed out.

The study noted substantial weight variations within antidepressant classes; for instance, SSRIs like escitalopram and paroxetine were associated with 15% higher weight gain risk than sertraline in the first six months.

"Although there are several reasons why patients and their clinicians might choose one antidepressant over another, weight gain is an important side effect that often leads to patients stopping their medication," said Dr. Jason Block, senior author and Harvard Medical School associate professor.

"Our study found that some antidepressants, like bupropion, are associated with less weight gain than others. Patients and their clinicians could consider weight gain as one reason for choosing a medication that best fits their needs," he added.

The research, recently published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, exposed the complexity of antidepressant choices and their impact on patient outcomes, suggesting personalized approaches to medication selection. For those managing depression and concerned about weight, bupropion may offer a promising alternative.