Trintellix (vortioxetine) is a commonly prescribed brand-name antidepressant medication for adults with depression. As with any medication, one of the concerns you may have is the potential for weight gain. In this article, we will dive into the relationship between Trintellix and body weight, examining clinical trials and reported side effects. We will also explore the mechanism of action of Trintellix, drug interactions, and discuss other factors that may contribute to weight changes during antidepressant treatment.
What does Trintellix treat?
Trintellix, previously known as Brintellix, is a prescription drug that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help reduce depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD).
How does Trintellix work?
Trintellix is an FDA-approved atypical antidepressant drug that is also referred to as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and a serotonin receptor modulator. The exact mechanism of action of Trintellix in treating depression is not fully understood. However, it is thought to work by boosting the action of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate your mood as well as other body functions.
Does Trintellix cause weight gain?
According to Takeda Pharmaceuticals, the drug manufacturer of Trintellix, it does cause any significant change in body weight.
In short-term clinical trials lasting 6 to 8 weeks, Trintellix did not show a significant impact on body weight. The reported changes in body weight during this period were minimal, ranging from -0.1 kg to +0.1 kg (around 0.22 lbs).
However, in long-term studies lasting 52 weeks, clinically significant weight gain was seen in an estimated 11-13% of users, while weight loss occurred in 7.7% of users. On average, the weight increase ranged from 1.54 lbs to 1.76 lbs. These findings suggest that while weight gain can occur with Trintellix, it is not a common side effect and is typically not significant.
However, it is important to note that reports of weight gain have been received since Trintellix was brought to the market. It is unclear how often this occurs or if Trintellix is the cause of the weight gain. It is possible that weight gain associated with Trintellix may be attributed to increased appetite, altered hormones, or changes in metabolism. Other factors, such as bloating, constipation, social eating, or fatigue, may also contribute to weight changes.
How does Trintellix compare with other antidepressants when it comes to weight gain?
Weight gain is a common side effect of many antidepressant medications that are used to treat mental health conditions. However, Trintellix is reported to be less likely to cause weight gain when compared to tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) such as Elavil (amitriptyline), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as Nardil (phenelzine), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Lexapro (escitalopram) Paxil (paroxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline).
Why else could be causing weight gain while taking Trintellix?
Several factors can contribute to weight changes during Trintellix treatment. Nausea, appetite reduction, and diarrhea have been reported as potential side effects of Trintellix, which can lead to weight loss. Conversely, increased appetite, bloating, constipation, and social eating can contribute to weight gain.
It is important to note that weight changes can also be influenced by underlying depression itself. Depression can lead to both weight gain and weight loss. Individuals with depression may experience changes in appetite, leading to overeating or decreased interest in food. Starting an antidepressant such as Trintellix can improve mood, potentially increasing appetite and resulting in weight gain.
Additionally, factors such as age, lifestyle, and individual metabolism can play a role in weight changes during antidepressant treatment. It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to manage body weight effectively.
How can you manage weight gain with Trintellix?
If you are starting Trintellix or currently taking it and have concerns about weight gain, it is important to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide a personalized diet and exercise program based on your individual circumstances and help you navigate any potential challenges.
If you experience significant weight gain or are concerned about your body weight while taking Trintellix, your healthcare provider may consider alternative treatment options or make adjustments to your treatment plan.
What are some common side effects of Trintellix?
The most common side effects seen in clinical trials when compared to placebo include:
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Nausea
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Diarrhea
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Vomiting
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Constipation
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Dry mouth
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Sexual side effects such as a decreased sex drive and other sexual dysfunction
Trintellix can rarely cause serious side effects such as:
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Severe, life-threatening allergic reactions (hives, swelling of your tongue or throat, and trouble breathing)
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Increased risk of serotonin syndrome (agitation, fast heartbeat, blood pressure changes, sweating, dizziness, muscle stiffness, nausea, and vomiting)
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Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and worsening depression, especially in patients under 25 years of age
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Increased risk of bleeding, especially if taken with blood thinners such as warfarin
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Low sodium levels
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Vision changes, eye pain, and glaucoma
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Mania or hypomania in people with bipolar disorder
These are not all of the possible adverse effects of Trintellix. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare professional for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Are there any drug interactions with Trintellix?
When Trintellix is taken with other drugs, it can change how they work or make some side effects more likely or severe. You should ask your healthcare provider if any of the prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take may interact with Trintellix, including:
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SSRIs such as sertraline, citalopram, and paroxetine
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TCAs such as amitriptyline
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MAOIs such as linezolid, methylene blue, phenelzine, selegiline, and tranylcypromine
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Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine and duloxetine
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen
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Diuretics such as furosemide
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Opioids, including tramadol and fentanyl
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Triptans, including sumatriptan
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St. John’s Wort
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Lithium
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Bupropion
Related medications
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Celexa (citalopram)
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