Antidepressants and Metabolic Health by Dr Samir Contractor is an evidence-based clinical guide that addresses a frequently overlooked issue: the significant metabolic impact of commonly prescribed antidepressants.
While these medications are essential for treating depression and related conditions, many are associated with weight gain, increased insulin resistance, higher risk of type 2 diabetes, and adverse changes in lipid and glucose profiles. The book systematically reviews:
- Differences in metabolic risk across antidepressant classes and individual agents (e.g., higher-risk agents such as mirtazapine, paroxetine and certain tricyclics versus more weight-neutral options such as bupropion)
- Mechanisms linking antidepressants to appetite changes, insulin sensitivity and cardiometabolic outcomes
- Evidence from recent meta-analyses and real-world studies on diabetes and cardiovascular risk
- Practical approaches to baseline metabolic assessment, ongoing monitoring, medication selection and lifestyle support
Written for clinicians, psychiatrists, primary-care physicians and informed patients, the guide emphasises balanced decision-making: effective psychiatric treatment does not have to come at the expense of long-term metabolic health. Clear clinical notes, evidence summaries and actionable recommendations make it a useful reference for integrating mental and metabolic care.
