• A Spanish study revealed a link between prolonged antidepressant use and weight gain in middle-aged adults.
• Participants who used antidepressants for an average of six years experienced greater weight gain than those who did not.
• The study recommends integrating weight management and metabolic monitoring into depression follow-up guidelines.

A recent study conducted by Spanish researchers investigated the relationship between antidepressant use and weight gain. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, tracked over 3,000 middle-aged Spanish adults for six years and found that antidepressant use was associated with a notable increase in weight. This finding raises concerns given the prevalence of both depression and obesity worldwide, suggesting a need for integrated treatment approaches.

• What: A study has linked prolonged use of antidepressants to weight gain. The research indicates that individuals taking antidepressants for extended periods experienced a greater increase in weight compared to those who did not use the medication.
• Who: The study involved over 3,000 middle-aged Spanish adults. Key individuals mentioned include Camille Lassale from the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute in Barcelona, and Dr. Víctor Pérez, the head of the Psychiatry Department at Hospital del Mar.
• When: The study tracked participants over a six-year period. The research was published recently, with news reports surfacing in early May 2025.
• Where: The study was conducted in Spain, involving researchers from the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute in Barcelona.

The study's findings highlight a significant concern given the widespread use of antidepressants and the global obesity epidemic. The link between antidepressant use and weight gain remained independent of factors like age, sex, socioeconomic status, lifestyle, and depressive symptoms. This suggests a direct impact of the medication on weight, warranting further investigation and integrated treatment approaches that address both depression and weight management. The mention of specific antidepressants like mirtazapine and paroxetine causing weight gain provides actionable information for doctors when prescribing medication.

"Their effect on weight is not universal, although certain medications, such as mirtazapine and paroxetine, can cause significant weight gain."

The study provides evidence of a connection between antidepressant use and weight gain, particularly with prolonged use. While antidepressants are effective for treating depression, their potential impact on weight necessitates a more holistic approach to treatment. Integrating weight management and metabolic monitoring into depression follow-up guidelines can help mitigate the risk of weight gain and improve overall patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and identify targeted interventions.