How to Reverse Weight Gain Caused by Medication
Many years ago, I have a patient who was referred to me for weight management, she's at least 30 lbs overweight. She started weight gain when she started psych meds and olanzapine.
She eats clean and healthy, but her weight won't budge.
Then, I stopped seeing her for a while.
A year later, she returned to see me. But this time for the opposite problem. She became anorexic.
The year before, she stopped coming because she went into a mental health institute for her mental illness. While she was there, they stopped her meds, and she lost all that weight without changing a thing.
Just like anyone who has lost a lot of weight, they become afraid of eating because they're afraid they'll gain weight back. So she stopped eating and limiting herself to only 300kcal a day.
So, long story short, when it comes to weight gain from medication, it's almost impossible to lose that weight. And the only way to lose that weight is to stop the medication.
Birth control. If your doctor told you it does not cause weight gain, they're lying to you. I see it all the time. If you gain weight after starting birth control and try to lose with weight with dieting and exercising and nothing works, know that you did not do anything wrong. The only mistake you make is listening to your OB, who's most likely a male doctor who doesn't give a shit.
Psy meds are the worst. Doctors put people on psych meds for anxiety and depression. Then, they gain 10-20lbs almost instantly. I don't know how this meds is supposed to help, when the weight gain alone is going to cause anyone to feel sad and depressed.
Weight gain associated with certain medications can be particularly stubborn and resistant to traditional weight loss methods like dieting and exercise. This is because these medications may alter metabolism, increase appetite, or promote fat storage in ways that are difficult to counteract. Consequently, losing this weight can be nearly impossible while still taking the medication. In many cases, the only effective way to reverse this weight gain is to stop the medication under the guidance of a healthcare provider and find alternative treatments that do not have the same side effects.
This case highlights the powerful impact that certain medications can have on weight and the potential for reversal once the medication is discontinued.
Understanding Medications That Cause Weight Gain: What Women Should Know Before Starting a New Diet
In the quest for weight loss, many women turn to various diets and exercise routines, only to find their efforts thwarted by an unexplained lack of progress. While it is common to blame a sedentary lifestyle or dietary habits, one often overlooked factor is medication. Certain medications can contribute significantly to weight gain, making it essential for women to review their medication list before embarking on a new weight loss regimen. Instead of focusing solely on the scale, it may be more beneficial to address the underlying health conditions necessitating these medications.
Common Medications That Can Cause Weight Gain
Several classes of medications are known to potentially cause weight gain. Here are some common culprits:
Antidepressants:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Medications like paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft) are often prescribed for depression and anxiety but can lead to weight gain.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): Drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor) are also associated with weight gain.
Antipsychotics:
Medications like olanzapine (Zyprexa) and risperidone (Risperdal), used for conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, can increase appetite and lead to significant weight gain.
Corticosteroids:
Drugs like prednisone, often used to treat inflammatory conditions like asthma or arthritis, can cause weight gain through fluid retention and increased appetite.
Beta-Blockers:
Commonly prescribed for heart conditions, medications such as metoprolol (Lopressor) and atenolol (Tenormin) can slow metabolism and increase body weight.
Diabetes Medications:
Insulin and certain oral hypoglycemics, like sulfonylureas, can lead to weight gain as they help the body store more glucose as fat.
Birth Controls:
Most doctors will tell you it doesn't cause weight gain, but I see women gain weight after starting birth control all the time.
Why Medication-Induced Weight Gain Occurs
The mechanisms behind medication-induced weight gain vary. Some medications increase appetite, others alter metabolism or fat storage, and some can cause fluid retention. Understanding these mechanisms can help address the root causes and find suitable alternatives.
What Women Should Do
Review Medication List:
Before starting any new diet or exercise routine, women should review their current medications with their healthcare provider. Identifying drugs that contribute to weight gain can provide clarity and help set realistic weight loss goals.
Consult Healthcare Providers:
Discussing potential side effects with a doctor can lead to adjustments in medication or exploring alternative treatments that have a lesser impact on weight.
Focus on Health, Not Just Weight:
It's crucial to focus on overall health and managing the condition that requires medication. Proper management of underlying conditions can sometimes reduce the need for medications that cause weight gain.
Implement a Holistic Approach:
Adopting a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques can help mitigate some of the weight gain effects of medications. Consulting a nutritionist or a fitness expert can provide personalized strategies.
Monitor Changes:
Keeping track of weight, mood, and other health indicators can help identify if a medication is impacting weight. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers can ensure that any necessary adjustments are made promptly.
Weight gain from medications is a significant and often overlooked factor in the struggle with weight loss. Women should be proactive in reviewing their medication lists and discussing potential side effects with their healthcare providers. By addressing the underlying health issues that necessitate these medications and adopting a comprehensive approach to wellness, women can improve their overall health outcomes and find a more effective path to weight management. The journey to better health is multifaceted and requires a focus on healing and well-being rather than just the number on the scale.
