So I want the lap band and I went to my primary physician to get his approval. I told him that I gained almost 90 pounds in the last 9 years and that is unacceptable for me. He wrote me a prescription for Wellbutrin and td me to come back in 3 weeks.

Wait what???

Thank God my insurance does not require me to get his approval to have the procedure.

Frustrating already...

Wow... I'd be more than a little upset. Have you considered changing doctors to one that's more supportive of you? If I were in your shoes, I would.

Best wishes to you. Don't let his thoughtlessness get you down.

Had you already been on antidepressants? And was he just changing your meds?

Reason I am asking is because wellbutrin is not suppose have the weight gain side effect that most antidepres. do.

And if you could lose the weight by switching meds without going thru surgery, awesome.

Or he may feel you gained due to depression and that is why he prescribed them.

I have gained 50lbs in 15 yrs due to my meds. That is why I am thinking this way. My doc agreed after I had no alternative(wellbutrin didn't help my anxiety).

Good luck.

Good Morning all!

My dad passed away last year from ALS so I have been in counseling since his death. I was depressed last year and I sought help IMMEDIATELY. I quickly learned that I had other unresolved issues and I have been working on them ever since with no medication.

Side effects have been horrible for me as far as weight gain. However, the reason I gained weight is because I quit smoking. I don't regret that but the weight has been horrible.

I've tried everything to lose it and I am frustrated because its gotten worse.

I like my doctor and I wanted his support but I don't need him to proceed. My doctor visits will be cut if I lose this weight. If all of his patients take control and lose weight half of his practice is gone. That is a fact...

My choice is clear...

I'm really happy to hear that you don't require his support to proceed with the surgery. Wellbutrin is an ok antidepressant and weight gain isn't a side effect like many other antidepressants but if you have been managing since your father's death with therapy alone that is great. It's so hard to get off antidepressants once you start, trust me I know! And congratulations on quitting smoking since that would definitely get in the way of getting the lap band. I know what a struggle that is too! Congratulations on taking control of your life and proceed without the Wellbutrin. It sounds like you may need a new PCP, but in the end you will be happy with your decision. Good luck!

Thank you so much! I have an appt on Friday!