Study: Weight Gain with Antidepressants Small

Although some pills for depression can spur weight gain, a new study finds that the long-term amount gained is small. Most prior studies have lasted only a few months. The new study was based on electronic records for more than 19,000 adults with depression. They had been treated with at least 1 of 11 different antidepressants. After 12 months, they had gained an average of 1 to 2 pounds. Weight gain was smallest for those who took bupropion (Wellbutrin and generics), amitriptyline and nortriptyline. But differences between average weight gains for different drugs were small. The journal JAMA Psychiatry published the study. HealthDay News wrote about it June 5.