Weight suppression and weight rebound in ex-smokers treated with fluoxetine

J Consult Clin Psychol. 1999 Feb;67(1):124-31. doi: 10.1037//0022-006x.67.1.124.

Abstract

Fluoxetine's effect (30 mg, 60 mg, and placebo) on postcessation weight gain was studied among participants from a randomized, double-blind 10-week smoking cessation trial who met strict criteria for abstinence and drug levels. It was hypothesized that (a) fluoxetine would dose-dependently suppress postcessation weight gain and (b) drug discontinuation would produce dose-dependent weight rebound. During the on-drug phase, placebo participants gained weight linearly (M = 2.61 kg). exceeding both fluoxetine groups (30-mg group M = 1.33 kg, 60-mg group M = 1.25 kg). Weight suppression was initially greater for 60 mg than 30 mg, but both were followed by weight gain. Six months off drug produced greater dose-dependent weight rebound for 60 mg than 30 mg or placebo. Considering both on- and off-drug phases, weight gain for 60 mg of fluoxetine (M = 6.5 kg) was comparable with that for placebo (M = 4.7 kg) but greater than that for 30 mg (M = 3.6 kg). Fluoxetine appears to forestall postcessation weight gain, allowing time for the weight-conscious smoker to focus on quitting smoking rather than on preventing weight gain.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Fluoxetine / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Recurrence
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Smoking Cessation / psychology*
  • Weight Gain / drug effects*

Substances

  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Fluoxetine