Observational Study of the Impact of Short-Term Duloxetine Treatment on Body Weight in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder

Abstract

To the Editor: The impact of antidepressants on body weight interferes with patients’ adherence to these medications. In the past, tricyclic antidepressants were associated with weight gain.1 In recent years, even with advances, antidepressants have still struggled solving this complex issue. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can cause short-term body weight loss, but long-term body weight gain can be a significant concern in this treatment strategy.2 Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) agents, such as venlafaxine and sibutramine, have different effects on body weight. Sibutramine is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for obesity treatment,3 but the effect of venlafaxine on body weight is still controversial.