Q. As I am gaining weight with Paroxetine and Mirtazapine, shall I opt Zoloft?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

• Both Mirtazapine and Paroxetine are known to cause weight gain. Sertraline (Zoloft) also causes some weight gain. So, in my opinion shifting to Sertraline will not be a good idea.

• Other SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) like Fluoxetine or Escitalopram can be tried instead of Paroxetine.

• Fluoxetine does not cause much weight gain and is considered as safe. The drug has great efficacy in controlling OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) symptoms too.

• For sleep, I suggest low dose Benzodiazepines instead of Mirtazapine. The benzodiazepines will relieve anxiety and help in sleep. Discuss with your doctor for these drugs.

For further information consult a psychiatrist online -->https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/psychiatrist

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

• Fluoxetine is relatively safe in bipolar disorder as compared to other SSRIs like Paroxetine you are taking. The drug should reduce irritability.

• Fluoxetine causes insomnia and should be taken preferably in the morning after breakfast. Evening doses should not be given and so, the drug will not result in disruption of your sleep.

• Taking a low dose Benzodiazepine like Clonazepam will help with good sleep.

• Cross tapering is the best option to stop using the drug. Reduce the dose of Paroxetine slowly over four weeks and increase the dose of Fluoxetine over four weeks. This will not cause any withdrawal symptoms.

For further information consult a psychiatrist online -->https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/psychiatrist

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi

Experience: 16 + Yrs

Psychiatry

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