Consumer Tips \ Inside the Medicine Chest
Which Drugs Cause Weight Gain?
If your weight is going up and you're not sure why, one place to look may be right inside your medicine cabinet.
That's because some drugs can lead to weight gain. Here are a few you should be aware of.
Certain types of antidepressants known as tricyclics and MAO inhibitors affect parts of the brain that control appetite, prompting you to eat more, without realizing it.
Steroids like prednisone can also make you feel hungrier.
The estrogen in birth control pills can make women retain water and could add up to five pounds to that number on the scale.
Certain drugs for heartburn and diabetes also have weight gain as a possible side effect.
If you suspect a drug is adding extra pounds, don't stop taking it without talking to your doctor.
You may be able to ward off or reverse the weight gain by keeping a closer eye on your diet and getting more physical activity.
If that doesn't work, find out if there are other medicines you can try that don't lead to weight gain.
As always, if you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This entry last modified on: March 8, 2012 12:23 PM
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About the Video
If you've packed on a few extra pounds and don't know why, take a look in your medicine cabinet. Pharmacist Doug White explains which drugs can cause you to gain weight.
Does Effexor xr cause weight gain?
I just wanted to know if insulin can lead to weight gain?
I am a type 1 diabetic and have had issues with my weight for some time. I am on a few different medications but someone told me she has lost weight with insulin, if that is so what is my problem?
Hi Rosa,
It's common for patients taking insulin for the first time to experience some weight gain. Glucose that was being flushed from the body in urine during episodes of high blood sugar will be absorbed by the body with the help of insulin—leading to extra pounds. Here's a great article on weight gain and insulin from the Mayo Clinic.
You should talk with your physician or endocrinologist about any weight gain from insulin.
Best,
Sean