Posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2000, at 19:24:15
In reply to Correction to above post » Cam W., posted by Cam W. on November 1, 2000, at 19:07:29
••Dr.Bob - As a favor to me, could you delete my previous 2 posts - Thanks, Cam••
Oops #2 - desensitizing, not stimulaing 5-HT2C receptors
•AMENDED VERSION 2•Sassy - H2-receptor antagonists (aka H2- recptor blockers) may work to decrease weight gain by some unknown mechanism, but I haven't personally seen it work. There are anecdotal reports (aka letters to the editor) of cimetidine (Tagamet™) and nizatidine (Axid™) working to stop the weight gain from occuring, but is not used in weight loss (I think).
As for the theories of serotonergic antidepressants (SSRIs, Remeron™, Serzone™) causing weight gain. There are probably several events occuring. The increased serotonin is probably desensitizing serotonin-2C receptors (5-HT2C), which has been shown to increase weight. I believe that Remeron blocks histamine (H-1) receptors which also causes weight gain. People often mention a craving for carbohydrates. There are other theories, but I can't think of them right now. I know that Clozaril™ (clozapine) and Zyprexa™ (olanzapine) can cause increased levels of leptin in the plasma, which is also implicated in weight gain. I'm not sure if leptin levels are raised with serotonergic antidepressant use.
Keeping a food diary (of what you are eating) and trying to eat healthier (I'm one to talk) and moderate daily exercise can help shift some of that weight around (lose fat & gain muscle).
Hope this helps - Cam
(Man, I think I'll quit while I'm way behind.)
poster:Cam W.
thread:46967
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20001022/msgs/47959.html