Cymbalta (duloxetine) is an antidepressant medication prescribed to treat depression and various other conditions. It can cause some weight changes during treatment, although this risk is considered mild. People can manage weight changes during treatment with professional advice and may require treatment changes.
- Cymbalta (duloxetine) is an antidepressant classed as an SNRI, with a moderate or mild risk of weight gain.
- Cymbalta can cause some weight loss in short-term treatment and some weight gain with longer-term treatment.Â
- Weight changes while on Cymbalta can vary depending on several factors. Treatment changes can be made if necessary to help manage weight gain.
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Understanding Cymbalta's impact on weight
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an antidepressant medication classed as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Like many other antidepressants, duloxetine can cause some weight changes during treatment, and this can vary depending on individual factors, duration of treatment, and dosage. [1]
Research into duloxetine’s effects on weight has shown mixed results, although it mostly indicates a neutral impact on weight in short-term treatments and a moderate impact on weight during longer-term treatments. [1][2]
Does Cymbalta cause weight gain?
Research shows varying results on potential weight gain, although it is generally considered that longer-term treatments result in more weight gain. Weight increases are often gradual rather than rapid, associated with treatment duration and dosage, and likely to affect only a proportion of those using the medication. [1]
For example, research shows: [1][2][3]
- People taking 80 mg per day (40 mg twice daily) gained, on average, 0.7kg over 34 weeks, compared to people taking 120 mg per day (60 mg twice daily) who gained 0.9kg.
- Over a one-year treatment, a mean weight increase of 1.1kg was observed.
- After a nine- and 12-month period, 21% and 17% of participants had gained over 7% of their original body weight, respectively, suggesting a gradual weight increase that might plateau or reduce after 9 months.
- Over 24 months, a mean increase of 1.63kg was observed.
Can Cymbalta also cause weight loss?
Cymbalta is likely to cause minimal or no weight gain within a short-term treatment period and can cause some weight loss in this time. Some research suggests a loss of around half a kilogram during an acute treatment period of up to 12 weeks. However, treatment that continues beyond this duration is more likely to result in some weight gain. [1][2]
How much weight is typically gained with Cymbalta?
Studies suggest that around 1.1kg can be gained over one year, and 1.6kg over two years. As such, weight increases are relatively minimal and increase gradually over time. [1][2]
Factors affecting Cymbalta weight changes
Various factors can influence weight changes on Cymbalta, including: [1][2][4]
- Treatment duration and dose: Short-term treatments are more likely to result in weight loss, while higher doses and longer-term treatments can lead to weight gain.
- Lifestyle: People with a healthy lifestyle are less likely to experience weight gain on Cymbalta.
- Neurotransmitter changes: Antidepressants can impact various neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which can impact appetite.
- Depression symptoms: Symptoms of depression can include changes in appetite. Those who experience increased appetite during depressive episodes may lose weight during Cymbalta treatment once their symptoms are treated and appetite returns to normal. Similarly, those who lose their appetite during a depressive episode may find that this increases during treatment, and may cause weight gain.
Cymbalta vs. Other antidepressants
Duloxetine causes some weight changes during treatment, resulting in a lower risk than some antidepressants and a higher risk than others. Typically, the antidepressants that are least likely to lead to weight gain include: [2][3]
- Fluoxetine
- Bupropion (can cause weight loss)
- Venlafaxine
- Vilazodone
While the antidepressants that are most likely to lead to weight gain include: [2][3]
- Amitriptyline
- Citalopram
- Paroxetine
- Mirtazapine
Duloxetine causes moderate weight gain, with a medium-level risk, putting it somewhere between these two groups. [2]
Ways to mitigate Cymbalta weight gain
People can prevent or manage weight gain during Cymbalta treatment by implementing healthy lifestyle changes. For example: [5]
- Eating a healthy diet
- Engaging in regular physical exercise
- Getting adequate hydration
- Good quality and quantity of sleep
- Managing stress
These strategies can be crucial to people with depression or other mental health conditions, as they can have a positive impact on mental and physical health and improve overall well-being.Â
Additionally, behavioral therapies can be helpful during treatment to recognize and change harmful eating behaviors and attitudes around food. This can also benefit mental health recovery and provide positive coping strategies and skills. [5]
When to talk to a provider
People who are struggling to manage their weight or are concerned about weight gain may wish to consult their clinician for advice and support. This might be particularly necessary if significant weight gain has occurred, such as more than 5% of original body weight or a body mass index (BMI) that has increased to over 30.
Similarly, if weight gain is associated with trouble breathing, changes in blood glucose levels, chest pain, or other noticeable and concerning changes in physical well-being, professional support might be necessary. [5]
The doctor can review the medication and make changes if required, such as altering the dose or suggesting an alternative medication. Never stop taking duloxetine without professional advice and guidance, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms and unmanaged mental health conditions. The doctor can help with a safe taper and titration schedule.
They can also provide intervention if other tests or treatments are required to help manage weight or discover underlying causes.
In summary, duloxetine (Cymbalta) is unlikely to cause serious weight gain, although some changes in weight can occur during treatment. People concerned about their weight during treatment can consult with their prescribing doctor to discuss the available options.
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