What prescription drugs can cause weight gain? Discover the facts about common medications that may impact metabolism and lead to increased weight. Get concise answers to your questions.

The Link Between Prescription Drugs and Weight Gain

Maintaining a healthy weight can be a challenge, and for some people, the culprit may lie in their bathroom cabinet. Certain prescription medications have been shown to contribute to weight gain, affecting factors like appetite, metabolism, and fluid retention. In this comprehensive analysis, we’ll explore the various types of drugs that can lead to unwanted pounds and provide insights on how to manage this side effect.

Depression Medications: The Impact on Appetite and Metabolism

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants are commonly prescribed for depression. These drugs work by boosting the levels of “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, but they can also influence appetite and calorie-burning. “You might eat but not feel full,” says Dr. Sue DeCotiis, a board-certified internist specializing in medical weight loss. “Or you might lay down more fat even if you’re not eating more.” The weight gain associated with these medications can be significant, with some individuals gaining up to 24 pounds in a year.

Mood Stabilizers: Affecting Brain Function and Metabolism

Drugs used to treat conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, such as clozapine (Clozaril), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), and olanzapine (Zyprexa), can also contribute to weight gain. “They directly affect your brain and will affect your weight and metabolism,” explains Dr. DeCotiis. The weight gain associated with mood stabilizers can be substantial, with some individuals gaining up to 11 pounds in just 10 weeks.

Diabetes Medications: Balancing Blood Sugar and Weight

Drugs used to manage diabetes, including glimepiride (Amaryl), glipizide (Glucotrol), and glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase), can lead to weight gain as the body adjusts to the medication. “Some of the older drugs basically vacuum calories into fat cells,” says Dr. Louis Aronne, director of the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medical College. This weight gain can be particularly frustrating for individuals with type 2 diabetes who were already overweight.

Corticosteroids: Impacting Metabolism and Appetite

Corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone (Medrol), prednisolone (Orapred, Pediapred, Prelone), and prednisone (Deltasone, Prednicot, Sterapred), are often prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. However, they can also affect metabolism and increase appetite, leading to weight gain, especially around the midsection.

Seizure and Migraine Medications: Hormonal Disruptions

Drugs used to prevent migraines and seizures, including amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor), and valproic acid (Depacon, Depakote, Stavzor), can impact the hormones that control hunger and the body’s ability to sense when it’s full. “They can up your appetite, lower your metabolism, and cause your body to hang on to extra fluids,” explains Dr. Donald Waldrep, co-director of The Center for Weight Loss Surgery at Los Robles Hospital.

Beta Blockers: Slowing the Heart and Impacting Metabolism

Beta blockers, such as acebutolol (Sectral), atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), and propranolol (Inderal), are commonly prescribed to ease stress on the heart by slowing its rate and lowering blood pressure. However, these medications can also slow metabolism, potentially contributing to weight gain.

Managing Medication-Induced Weight Gain

If you suspect your prescription medications are causing weight gain, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes. Your doctor may be able to switch you to a different medication or suggest lifestyle modifications, such as a low-carb diet and increased exercise, to help offset the weight gain. Remember, it’s crucial not to stop taking a medication without medical supervision, as that could have serious consequences.

Conclusion

Prescription drugs can have a significant impact on weight, affecting factors like appetite, metabolism, and fluid retention. By understanding the types of medications that may contribute to weight gain, individuals can work closely with their healthcare providers to manage this side effect and maintain a healthy weight. Remember, it’s always best to consult with a medical professional before making any changes to your medication regimen.