Weight gain on Trazodone happens in around 5% of patients.
The exact reasons for weight gain can vary, but some reasons include:
- Increase in appetite
- Slowed metabolism
- Fat storage
- Hormone levels
- Craving carbohydrates
- Improved taste of food once depression subsided
- Sedation
- Lack of motivation
- Increased social eating
The small chance that one can gain weight on Trazodone should not be a factor in not taking anti-anxiety meds when needed. If a person is concerned about sudden weight gain, they should discuss it with their doctor or nutritionist. Stopping Trazodone suddenly can be dangerous, so it is crucial to receive medical assistance when aiming to taper off of Trazodone.
If you or a loved one struggles with Trazodone abuse, reach out to us at Avenues so we can help you find the right treatment program.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of SARI drugs (serotonin receptor antagonists and reuptake inhibitors). Originally developed for the treatment of depression, Trazodone is recognized for its ability to modulate serotonin levels in the brain. Beyond its approved use for depression, healthcare providers may prescribe Trazodone off-label to address insomnia or sleep disorders, leveraging its sedative properties. The drug works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can contribute to an improved mood and, in turn, help manage depressive symptoms. Despite its efficacy, Trazodone can have side effects such as:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
As with any medication, it is crucial for individuals to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most suitable treatment plan and address any concerns or potential side effects.
How Much Weight Do People Gain on Trazodone?
A study about Trazodone weight gain showed that patients on Trazodone gained on average 1.2 pounds after the first six weeks. Although this does not sound like a concerning amount, weight gain can continue consistently if a person is on Trazodone for several years. The main reason for the weight gain is the sedative properties of Trazodone.
Some of the reasons that sedative medications cause weight gain include:
Increased Appetite: Some sedative medications may cause people to want to eat more or alter their perception of hunger, leading individuals to eat more than usual. This increase in calories can cause people to gain weight over time.
Slowed Metabolism: Sedative medications can sometimes affect a person’s metabolism, which slows down the body's ability to burn calories. This can result in a surplus of energy that is stored as fat, leading to weight gain.
Fluid Retention (Edema): Certain sedatives may cause fluid retention, leading to temporary weight gain due to water accumulation in the body.
Sedation-Induced Inactivity: Sedative medications can cause drowsiness and fatigue, reducing overall physical activity levels. A sedentary (inactive) lifestyle can contribute to weight gain over time.
Changes in Hormones: Some sedatives can influence hormonal balance, including those related to metabolism and appetite regulation. Disruptions in these hormonal systems may contribute to weight gain.
Psychological Factors: Sedatives, especially those that affect the central nervous system, may influence mood and behavior. Changes in mood or emotional well-being can sometimes lead to overeating and weight gain.
Does Trazodone Make You Hungry?
While hunger is not a commonly reported side effect of Trazodone, individual responses to medications can vary. Some people may experience changes in appetite, including increased hunger or, less commonly, decreased appetite as a side effect of Trazodone. If you notice any significant changes in your appetite or eating patterns while taking Trazodone, be sure to discuss these effects with your healthcare provider.
Since loss of appetite can be a symptom of depression, once the depression lifts some people find that they are more hungry than usual, which can cause weight gain if they start to eat more. Additionally, some patients might develop specific food cravings for carbohydrates or fats, including junk food, sugary items, or pasta. This occurrence could be caused by a change in serotonin (hormonal) levels in the body, which is thought to cause cravings.
How to Avoid Weight Gain While on Trazodone
Here are some tips on how to avoid Trazodone’s side effect of weight gain, and also potentially lose weight while on Trazodone:
Exercise: If your current condition allows it, exercising is an excellent strategy to prevent weight gain and uphold overall mental and physical health. Physical activity doesn't have to be difficult to produce positive results. Simple activities like walking or light yoga, while requiring minimal effort, contribute to improved health and enhanced mood.
Diet and Food Cravings: Trazodone may trigger food cravings, but succumbing to sugary or carb-laden foods can exacerbate the situation. It is advisable to eat a balanced diet including carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats such as fish, lean meat, olive oil, canola oil, beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Small, Frequent Meals: Some individuals on Trazodone may experience an increased appetite (hunger level). Instead of eating larger meals, opt for smaller meals more often. This will help you feel fuller with less calories, as there is less time between meals for hunger to set in.
Medication Adjustment: In some instances, no matter what you do, you may still gain weight. Consulting with a doctor and considering a medication switch could be a viable solution. Often, there are alternative treatment options or medications with similar antidepressant effects that will not impact your weight.
Consult With a Dietitian: Consulting with a dietitian can be instrumental in managing weight while on Trazodone, as they can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and the potential side effects of the medication. A dietitian can help design a nutrition plan that accounts for Trazodone-induced food cravings, ensuring balanced portions of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. They can also offer strategies for incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your diet while controlling calorie intake.
Additionally, a dietitian can address concerns related to increased appetite, recommending smaller, more frequent meals to mitigate the impact on weight. By working collaboratively with a dietitian, you can develop a sustainable and effective approach to maintaining a healthy weight while undergoing Trazodone treatment.
Trazodone and Weight Loss
For some people, Trazodone may cause weight loss rather than weight gain. In a study with 157 participants, 5.7 percent experienced weight loss while on Trazodone. In some patients, the weight loss trend may be temporary, while prolonged treatment over months or years could eventually lead to weight gain.
Some patients on Trazodone may experience side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, which can contribute to weight loss. Fortunately, these side effects don’t usually last for too long.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one suffer from Trazodone abuse, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on the road to recovery. Our expert and caring staff are waiting to help you. No one is beyond hope! We use personalized treatment plans and evidence based therapies to give you the best chance at recovery. Our experienced and professional addiction counselors have helped free thousands of people from the shackles of addiction, and they can help you too. Don't hesitate to reach out for the help you deserve! Contact us today to start your journey towards a happier, healthier, and addiction-free future.