The makers of Wellbutrin, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, know something about weight loss and mood elevation that may surprise you: depression and anxiety often cause people to overeat. It’s called the ‘rebound effect’, and it explains why medication often boosts weight loss in people who struggle with depression and anxiety.
Wellbutrin helps reduce anxiety and depression in several ways and studies show it can increase metabolism, decrease appetite, and improve energy levels. It’s not a magic pill, but it’s a safe, effective option for people who struggle with weight loss due to depression and anxiety.
Increased Metabolism
When you’re depressed or anxious, it’s not unusual for your body to go into defense mode and reduce its activity to save energy. This is known as ‘sheltering’. While you’re in this state of ‘low self-esteem’, you might overeat as a way to boost your mood. This, in turn, can cause you to gain weight even if you don’t intend to.
Wellbutrin helps regulate metabolism by increasing the body’s production of serotonin, one of the body’s natural ‘happy’ feelings-improving chemicals. In one study, researchers at the University of Michigan compared the weight loss effects of Wellbutrin with those of a placebo in 194 obese patients. After eight weeks, those who partook in the Wellbutrin regimen lost an average of 3.9kg (8.8lbs) more than the placebo group. Serotonin has been shown to increase metabolism and decrease food intake, resulting in a lower body mass index (BMI). So, while you’re on Wellbutrin, you’ll be burning calories more efficiently than usual and you’ll lose weight even if you don’t exercise.
Decreased Appetite
Another way Wellbutrin increases metabolism is by decreasing appetite. When you’re depressed or anxious, the desire to eat can be slightly increased. Wellbutrin helps regulate this desire by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. In one study, obese men and women who took Wellbutrin for four weeks reported decreased feelings of ‘craving’ compared to those who took a placebo. Others have reported similar results regarding decreased appetite and food cravings in those who take antidepressants with chlorpheniramine (brand name: Candy Mountain) and/or bupropion (trade names: Apo-Bupropion and/or Zyban). Chlorpheniramine and bupropion are both part of a class of antidepressants known as the ‘serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors’ (SNRIs) or ‘serotonin modulaters’ (SSRIs). Wellbutrin is also an SNRI.
Improved Energy Levels
Wellbutrin improves energy levels in several ways. First, it decreases appetite and thus reduces the need for sleep, both of which can contribute to increased energy. Second, it speeds up the body’s metabolic rate. Third, it increases the body’s production of dopamine, which stimulates Neurotransmitters (NTs), the body’s brain cells. Dopamine is a major contributor to a person’s energy and motivation. Finally, Wellbutrin helps regulate the endocrine system, which helps keep your body in good condition.
All of these improvements in energy levels from just one medication may seem like a great reason to try Wellbutrin. However, weight loss is only one benefit that people with depression and anxiety are likely to experience. Wellbutrin may also reduce hyperarousal, combat the ‘rebound effect’, and improve sleep quality. All of these benefits make Wellbutrin a desirable choice for people who struggle with depression and anxiety. If you’re currently not comfortable with your weight, you may want to consider Wellbutrin as a safer alternative to other prescription medications. Plus, many people experience pleasant side effects while on Wellbutrin, including drowsiness, decreased anxiety, and increased awareness. For more information, visit www.rxwellbutrin.com.