Body composition outcomes and visceral fat reduction in weight loss program participants taking antidepressant medication

Abstract

ObjectiveAntidepressants are one of the most commonly prescribed therapeutic drug classes in the United States. Studies support a bidirectional link between major depressive disorder and obesity. As such, it is critical to understand how these medications may impact weight loss. In this study, we assessed changes in body composition in participants taking versus not taking antidepressant medications during a comprehensive weight loss program focused on reduction of visceral adipose tissue. MethodsData was analyzed from 2200 subjects completing a commercially available expert supervised very low calorie diet (VLCD)-based program. Overall, 23% of the subjects reported taking at least one antidepressant medication. Endpoints assessed include weight, BMI, body fat, body water, and visceral adiposity. ResultsOur data show participants taking prescription antidepressants did not negatively impact improvement in any outcome, we found both groups achieved clinically relevant progress. Improvements from baseline were statistically significant and clinically relevant for all outcome measures in both groups. ConclusionInterestingly, while antidepressants may be linked to weight gain and inhibition of one's ability to lose weight, our data show subjects currently taking at least one antidepressant achieved clinically relevant improvements in body composition outcomes on par with those not taking medications in a VLCD-based weight loss and metabolic health program.