Weight Gain and SSRIs: Exploring Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy as an Alternative on the Upper East Side

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications for chronic depression. While effective for many, prolonged SSRI use can lead to significant side effects, including weight gain, fatigue, and emotional blunting. For individuals seeking a treatment option that provides relief without these drawbacks, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) offers a promising alternative. On the Upper East Side of NYC, Dr. David Lifschutz, a board-certified psychiatrist, provides KAP as a cutting-edge treatment for depression, offering hope to those who have struggled with the limitations of traditional antidepressants.

How SSRIs Contribute to Weight Gain

SSRIs, including medications like sertraline (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac), work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. While this can alleviate symptoms of depression, these medications can also disrupt other physiological processes, leading to:

  • Increased Appetite: Changes in serotonin levels can influence hunger cues, causing overeating.

  • Metabolic Slowing: SSRIs may lower the metabolic rate, making it harder to burn calories efficiently.

  • Fluid Retention: Some SSRIs cause water retention, contributing to feelings of bloating and weight gain.

  • Reduced Energy Levels: Fatigue and a lack of motivation to exercise can exacerbate weight management challenges.

For many patients, these side effects compound over time, impacting both their physical and mental health.

The Case for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy has emerged as a powerful alternative for treating chronic depression without the negative side effects commonly associated with SSRIs. Unlike traditional antidepressants, ketamine works on the glutamate system, promoting rapid neural regeneration and improving mood within hours or days.

At Creative Healing Psychiatry on the Upper East Side, Dr. David Lifschutz combines ketamine therapy with integrative psychotherapy, creating a holistic approach to healing. This treatment model offers several key benefits:

  • Rapid Symptom Relief: KAP provides faster relief compared to SSRIs, which can take weeks or months to show results.

  • No Weight Gain: Ketamine does not interfere with appetite regulation or metabolism, making it a weight-neutral option.

  • Improved Emotional Connection: Patients often report feeling more emotionally present and connected, in contrast to the emotional blunting sometimes caused by SSRIs.

  • Enhanced Long-Term Outcomes: By pairing ketamine with psychotherapy, patients can address the root causes of their depression, leading to sustained improvements.

Why Choose KAP on the Upper East Side?

Dr. David Lifschutz’s practice offers a welcoming and compassionate environment for individuals seeking alternatives to traditional depression treatments. His expertise in KAP and his commitment to personalized care ensure that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Lifschutz’s Upper East Side office is designed to provide a safe and serene setting for patients to explore this innovative therapy.

Breaking Free from the Cycle of Side Effects

Many individuals feel trapped in a cycle of trial-and-error with antidepressants, enduring side effects like weight gain, fatigue, and emotional disconnection. KAP offers a new path forward, empowering patients to find relief from depression without compromising their overall well-being. By focusing on both rapid symptom relief and deep emotional healing, KAP helps patients achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief

If you’ve experienced frustration with SSRIs or are seeking a weight-neutral alternative for treating chronic depression, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Dr. David Lifschutz and the team at Creative Healing Psychiatry are here to support you on your journey to recovery.

Contact Dr. Lifschutz’s office on the Upper East Side today to learn more about KAP and how it can transform your approach to mental health care.

Sources:

  1. Krystal, J. H., et al. (2019). “Neuroplasticity as a Target for the Development of Novel Treatments for Mood Disorders.” Biological Psychiatry, 86(10), 746-757.

  2. Serretti, A., & Mandelli, L. (2010). “Antidepressants and body weight: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 71(10).

  3. Wilkinson, S. T., et al. (2018). “The Effect of a Single Dose of Intravenous Ketamine on Suicidal Ideation: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 79(3).

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Antidepressants and Weight Gain: Finding Relief with Interventional Psychiatry