Maintaining a healthy weight is an important part of staying healthy, but medications are often associated with weight gain, which can lead to other health problems. Understanding the connection between medications and weight gain can help people make informed health decisions.
Contents
- 1 Classes of Medications Associated with Weight Gain
- 2 Mechanisms of Weight Gain
- 3 Managing Medications and Weight Gain
- 4 Keywords: Medications, Weight Gain, Health, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, Corticosteroids, Orlistat Xenical, Alli, Metabolic Rate, Balanced Diet, Vegetables, Fruits, Exercise
- 5 What types of medications can lead to weight gain?
Classes of Medications Associated with Weight Gain
Certain classes of medications are known to cause weight gain, and include antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-seizure medications, corticosteroids, hormones (such as oral contraceptives, estrogen replacement therapy, and growth hormones) and some diabetes medications. Even medications that are used to treat weight-related conditions, such as orlistat (brand names Xenical and Alli), can lead to weight gain if not taken as prescribed.
Mechanisms of Weight Gain
Weight gain related to medication use can be caused by several mechanisms. Some medications cause an increase in appetite, or cravings for calorie-dense or carbohydrate-rich foods. Other medications can reduce the metabolic rate and increase fat storage, leading to weight gain. Some medications also cause bloating and water retention.
Managing Medications and Weight Gain
If you are taking a medication that may cause weight gain, there are steps you can take to help manage your weight. Make sure to eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits, and try to limit your intake of foods that are high in calories, sugar, and fat. Exercise regularly and talk with your doctor if you are concerned about weight gain related to your medication.
Keywords: Medications, Weight Gain, Health, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, Corticosteroids, Orlistat Xenical, Alli, Metabolic Rate, Balanced Diet, Vegetables, Fruits, Exercise
What types of medications can lead to weight gain?
The types of medications that can lead to weight gain include: certain antidepressants, diabetes medications, very high dose steroids, some antipsychotic medications, seizure medications, and some hormones such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
