Will I gain weight on sertraline?

Weight gain is a potential side effect of sertraline, but it does not affect everyone who takes the medication. The likelihood of weight gain may depend on individual factors such as genetics, diet, and physical activity levels.

Some studies have suggested that sertraline may cause modest weight gain in some individuals, typically less than 5 pounds. However, other studies have found no significant difference in weight gain between individuals taking sertraline and those taking a placebo.

It is important to note that weight gain is not a universal side effect of sertraline, and it may not occur in everyone who takes the medication. Additionally, any weight gain that does occur may be due to a variety of factors, including changes in appetite, metabolism, or physical activity levels, rather than the medication itself.

If you are concerned about the potential for weight gain while taking sertraline, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you monitor your weight and make recommendations for diet and exercise to help manage any potential changes in weight.

In conclusion, weight gain is a potential side effect of sertraline, but it does not affect everyone who takes the medication. The likelihood of weight gain may depend on individual factors, and any weight gain that does occur may be due to a variety of factors. If you are concerned about the potential for weight gain while taking sertraline, it is important to talk to your doctor and make lifestyle changes as needed to manage your weight.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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