Prozac, or fluoxetine, is a commonly prescribed drug used to treat major depressive disorder. Researchers have investigated the off-label use of Prozac as a weight-loss aid. While studies have shown moderate weight loss in patients taking Prozac, the drug is certainly no miracle pill. Additionally, the safety of using Prozac to treat obesity instead of depression is questionable.
About Prozac
Prozac belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These antidepressant medications work by blocking the reuptake of a chemical messenger called serotonin in the brain. The subsequent accumulation of this neurotransmitter seems to help some individuals combat the sadness and irritability associated with clinical depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Prozac are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants currently on the market.
Side Effects
Although SSRIs are safer than the older, tricyclic class of antidepressants, they still have a long list of side effects. Taking Prozac may result in nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, dampened libido, sweating, lethargy, insomnia, erectile dysfunction and agitation. Although SSRIs have garnered attention as possible tools for weight loss, weight gain can also be a side effect of taking Prozac.
Weight Loss
A 2004 study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh Obesity and Nutrition Research Center showed that diabetic patients were able to lose more weight taking Prozac than they were on two other drugs marketed for weight loss. The weight loss side effect of Prozac was modest -- only an average of 13 lbs. lost over the course of the year -- but enough to peak researchers' interest. Even small successes in shedding pounds can dramatically improve the prognosis for a diabetic patient.
Significance
Prozac is not approved by the FDA as a weight-loss drug and it should only be prescribed for patients suffering from depression. At present, the long-term effects of taking Prozac for weight loss are unknown and further research is needed. Keep in mind that while losing a few pounds may be a nice bonus for some patients, weight gain is also a possible side effect with Prozac and with other SSRIs. If you are concerned about your weight, speak to your physician about nonpharmacologic ways to improve your health.
References
- ABC News; Prozac for Weight Loss?; August 2006
- The People's Voice News Network; Prozac for Weight Loss?; July 2006
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; Efficacy of Pharmacotherapy for Weight Loss in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus; Dr. Susan L. Norris, MPH; July 2004
- Mayo Clinic: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
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