Does Lexapro cause weight gain?

In studies, people treated with LEXAPRO experienced no clinically important weight change as a result of therapy. If you have concerns about any side effects, you should talk with your healthcare professional or doctor. The side effects listed for Lexapro are nausea, dry mouth, somnolence, insomnia, diaphoresis tremor, diarrhea, abnormal ejaculation, dyspepsia, fatigue, anxiety, vomiting, anorexia, sinusitus, sexual dysfunction, menstrual disorder, abdominal pain, agitation, decreased libido. But out of these side effects, only 4 to 8 % of all people who take this drug experience any weight change and that weight change as been reported as anorexia not weight gain.
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Yes, I did gain weight. After 18-months of 10mg daily, I gained 20+ lbs. I am sure it's a chemical reaction to the Rx, as my diet did not change. In fact, the way the drug works changes your hormones and metabolism. Both medical professionals and patients who have taken the Rx confirm the weight gain side effect. I hope after the 4-6 week withdrawal period, my body will readjust to my optimal weight. Keep in mind it still takes time to lose the weight, but it shouldn't be impossible (FYI: I could not lose more than 1-2 lbs while on the Lexapro, no matter how healthy I ate or active I was)!
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I have been on 5 mg of Lexapro for 2 yrs 2 mos. After 18 mos, I gained 15 pounds in about 2 mos going from 130 pounds to 145. I've been to 2 doctors, a nutritionist and a personal trainer trying to find the reason for the weight gain. According to the doctors, I am completely healthy. I work out 5 to 6 days a week and eat a very healthy, all natural, mostly organic diet. No matter how much I exercise or how little I eat, I am still slowly gaining.
After reading all the info on the internet about Lexapro and weight gain, I am starting to wean myself from the drug.
My psychiatrist warned me about the weight gain, but I didn't relate it to the Lexapro because it was 18 mos after I started the drug.
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In my personal experience, weight gain was not an issue. However, each person is different. If you decide to take Lexapro and suffer from any of the side-effects, speak to you doctor who can help you find the best medication for you -- there are many anti-depressants out there now.
For the known side-effects of Lexapro, see the link below.