Anti-depressant drug Viibryd may cause weight loss or weight gain depending on factors such as dosage, appetite, metabolism, and gastrointestinal effects on the body. Unlike other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that treat depression and anxiety, Viibryd has a lower potential of side effects like weight gain and sexual problems. However, exact effects can vary depending on the following factors.
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Weight Loss on Viibryd
The main active agent in Viibryd, vilazadone, is a partial agonist of 5-HT1A receptor. Targeting this particular receptor has been found to lessen the effects of weight gain in patients with depression. In some cases, patient may actually lose weight.
Patients who take Viibryd for depression typically notice weight loss after 6 months on the therapy. The result of weight loss in patients who take Viibryd is linked to side effects of the medication like diarrhea. This side effect is sometimes experienced at the beginning of the treatment as patients adjust to the medication.
Viibryd also suppresses appetite in patients with depression, which can affect how many calories are ingested daily. Another way that Viibryd helps patients lose weight is by increasing energy levels. This effect may cause patients with depression to engage in physically demanding tasks that burn more calories, potentially leading to weight loss.
Weight Gain on Viibryd
Some patients taking Viibryd may experience weight gain. Weight gain may be triggered by an increase in appetite and food cravings that signal reward in the brain. Food cravings for sugary drinks and other fatty foods in particular can lead to weight gain while on Viibryd. Taking Viibryd may increase the tendency to eat socially (as a result of improved mood and energy) and cause weight gain.
Other significant side effects reported by patients taking Viibryd include hormonal changes and metabolism decrease. These effects are closely related, as natural hormone levels may decrease while on Viibryd and cause metabolism function to slow down. If patients overindulge on fatty foods, the risk for the accumulation of excess body fat increases.
Factors that Affect Weight Gain and Weight Loss
Some of the factors that can determine weight loss or gain in patients taking Viibryd are related to dosage and treatment length. Though typically given in recommended dose of 40mg, taking Viibryd doses under 40mg can minimize the weight gain effects. The duration of the treatment is another critical factor that can determine if patients gain or lose weight. The weight loss effects typically occur within the first 6 months of the treatment. Any weight loss benefit beyond that period is unknown. A good rule for patients taking antidepressants like Viibryd is to exercise frequently, and consume healthier food options to minimize the potential for weight gain while on mood stabilizers. For more information about Viibryd and a free discount coupon, visit our Viibryd Drug Page.
