Does Prozac cause weight gain?

“I started taking Prozac a few months ago, and I’ve noticed my weight slowly creeping up even though my habits haven’t really changed. Does Prozac cause weight gain?”

Daisy Oliveira
Registered Nurse CNO #13564387

Prozac, also known as fluoxetine, can be linked to weight changes, but it does not automatically cause weight gain for everyone. In many people, weight stays about the same at first, and some may even notice mild weight loss early on.

Over time, weight gain can happen for some people, especially with longer-term use. Research suggests the pattern can depend on how long the medication is taken, and that lifestyle habits like food choices and activity level can make a difference.

Timing is important. Early changes may look different from what happens after many months, so it helps to track weight trends instead of focusing on a single week. If weight changes are unexpected or bothersome, a prescriber can help rule out other common causes and decide whether any adjustments are needed.

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No one should stop Prozac suddenly or change the dose without medical guidance. A primary care doctor or psychiatrist is the most appropriate specialist to review side effects and treatment options, and regular check-ins can help prevent small changes from becoming bigger problems.

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