Does fluoxetine have calories? (+3 insights)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this brief article, we will discuss whether fluoxetine has calories and how it can affect calorie intake, weight and appetite. This article will also explore what the research suggests about this topic and mention a few dietary recommendations while taking fluoxetine.
Does fluoxetine have calories?
No, fluoxetine itself does not contain calories. Fluoxetine does not contain any nutrients that can be metabolized into energy. Weight gain reported by some individuals using fluoxetine is not directly caused by the medication. Instead, it may result from changes in appetite or metabolism, which can occur as side effects of fluoxetine.
Fluoxetine is frequently prescribed to address depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. Medications like fluoxetine are typically formulated with inactive ingredients to facilitate administration, such as in the form of a pill or capsule. These components are not typically a significant source of calories.
On the contrary, weight loss is a common association with fluoxetine. Fluoxetine can lead to a decrease in daily energy intake by influencing the frequency of eating episodes. The observed weight loss is likely linked to alterations in eating behavior rather than a direct influence on metabolism. (1)
However, it is important to note that individual responses to fluoxetine can vary and weight changes may not be consistent across all individuals.
What does the research suggest?
Throughout a research study, fluoxetine markedly decreased daily energy intake by reducing the frequency of eating episodes. It also reduced the energy intake derived from the consumption of fat, carbohydrates and protein.
During this clinical trial, significant weight loss was observed in 14 patients while using fluoxetine. However, despite a sustained reduction in food intake during the initial weeks of daily fluoxetine administration, the weight loss was eventually regained. This indicates that fluoxetine, when used as a sole, long-term therapy, does not appear promising for maintaining weight loss in the therapy for obesity. (2)
What is the impact of fluoxetine on appetite and weight?
Fluoxetine is FDA-approved for the treatment of bulimia nervosa. Bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder, is defined by repeated episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short timeframe. Subsequent behaviors include self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, misuse of laxatives or diuretics and fasting. (3)
Fluoxetine is often prescribed to treat bulimia nervosa due to its positive impact on mood and appetite regulation. Fluoxetine increases the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with the regulation of appetite.
Fluoxetine can also reduce the frequency and severity of binge eating episodes. This can contribute to breaking the cycle of compulsive overeating.
By addressing underlying mood disorders and reducing recurrent eating episodes, fluoxetine can contribute to the normalization of eating patterns. As a result, fluoxetine can lead to weight stability, helping individuals maintain a healthier and more consistent body weight. (4)
How does fluoxetine impact metabolism?
Studies suggest that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including fluoxetine, can indirectly contribute to significant changes in weight and metabolism. Serotonin plays an important role in regulating different physiological processes, including metabolism.
Fluoxetine enhances the metabolism of glucose and lipids. Fluoxetine demonstrated a beneficial impact on enhancing blood glucose control in patients with glucose metabolism disorders. Additionally, fluoxetine can significantly decrease the levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol in the plasma. (5)
However, individual responses to fluoxetine can vary, and its metabolic effects can be influenced by factors such as age, gender and overall health.
What are some dietary recommendations while taking fluoxetine?
While taking fluoxetine, it’s advisable to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall well-being and optimize the medication’s effectiveness. Here are some general dietary recommendations to consider:
- Consistent meal patterns: Aim for regular and balanced meals throughout the day.
- Hydration: dehydration can affect mood and energy levels. Make sure to stay well-hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
- Limit caffeine intake: Excessive consumption of caffeine can contribute to anxiety or restlessness. Individual responses to caffeine can vary. It’s essential to be mindful and aware of how caffeine affects you.
- Limit alcohol intake: Alcohol can interact with medications and affect mood and sleep.
- Consult with a dietitian: Consider consulting with a registered dietitian who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual nutritional needs, health status and any potential interactions with fluoxetine.
In conclusion, fluoxetine itself does not contain calories. Fluoxetine has shown its ability to reduce calorie intake and the frequency of eating episodes. Fluoxetine can also treat bulimia nervosa by positively influencing and regulating the individual’s appetite and weight.
It’s essential to note that while the medication itself does not contribute to caloric intake, I strongly suggest you maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle which is important for overall well-being.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Serralde-Zuñiga AE, González-Garay AG, Rodríguez-Carmona Y, Meléndez-Mier G. Use of Fluoxetine to Reduce Weight in Adults with Overweight or Obesity: Abridged Republication of the Cochrane Systematic Review. Obes Facts. 2022;15(4):473-486. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9421708/
2.-
WARD A. S., S. D. COMER, M. HANEY, M. W. FISCHMAN AND R. W. FOLTIN. Fluoxetine-maintained obese humans: Effect on food intake and body weight. PHYSIOL BEHAV 66. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938499000207
4.-
D.S. Goldbloom, M.P. Olmstead. Pharmacotherapy of bulimia nervosa with fluoxetine: Assessment of clinically significant attitudinal change.Am. J. Psychiatry, 150 (1993), pp. 770-774 https://europepmc.org/article/med/8480824
5.-
Zizhen Zhang, Yang Du, Lizhi Chen, Ying Liu, Biao Du,Effects of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine on glucose metabolism: A systematic review, Asian Journal of Psychiatry, Volume 73,2022,103092,ISSN 1876-2018.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876201822000909
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