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Why am I gaining weight with bipolar disorder treatment?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was on Prozac for a few months. I loved it, but I experienced hypomania once. So, my psychiatrist switched me to Lamictal for bipolar disorder. I have gained weight and gotten depressed. Why am I gaining weight with this medicine?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Are you currently on Lamictal (Lamotrigine) alone or Lamictal plus Prozac (Fluoxetine)? Because, Prozac on long run can cause minor weight gain. Also, lack of physical activity during depression can cause weight gain. Simple changes in lifestyle like brisk morning walk and dietary changes can help. If you are experiencing depression with Lamictal, then you can discuss with your treating doctor about changing to other stabilizers.

Answered byDr. Aditya Gupta

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At December 24, 2016
Reviewed AtAugust 10, 2023

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