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Published: March 15, 2025
While weight-loss drugs like Ozempic frequently enough dominate headlines, licensed pharmacist Dr. Kati Forbes is drawing attention to a less discussed issue: medications that can trigger weight gain. Dr. Forbes has identified six medications that may contribute to unwanted pounds, ranging from common over-the-counter allergy remedies to prescription antidepressants and antipsychotics. Understanding these potential side effects is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about treatment options.
Dr. Forbes, leveraging her extensive pharmaceutical knowledge, aims to raise awareness about the link between specific drugs and weight gain. Recognizing this connection empowers individuals to engage in more informed discussions with their healthcare providers and proactively manage their health.
The Culprits: Six Medications Linked to Weight Gain
1. Benadryl
Perhaps surprisingly, Benadryl, a widely used over-the-counter medication for allergic reactions, makes the list. according to the Obesity Medicine association,histamine,a chemical released during allergic responses,also plays a role in appetite regulation. Antihistamines like Benadryl can interfere with the body’s “I’m full” signal, potentially leading to overeating. This interference can disrupt the delicate balance of hunger and satiety, contributing to increased caloric intake.
Dr. Forbes notes that first-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl and cyproheptadine, are more likely to cause weight gain, especially with long-term use. Cyproheptadine is even used as an appetite stimulant in some cases, further highlighting the connection between these medications and increased appetite. The prolonged use of these antihistamines can lead to a sustained disruption of appetite signals, resulting in gradual weight accumulation.
2. Paroxetine (Paxil)
Paroxetine, commonly known as Paxil, is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Dr. Forbes identifies Paxil as one of the more sedating SSRIs and a significant contributor to weight gain. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can affect mood and appetite. The impact on serotonin pathways can influence both emotional well-being and metabolic processes.
Amid growing antidepressant use, especially among young adults and teens, understanding the potential side effects of these medications is crucial. A study found that about 14% of U.S. adults take an antidepressant. The Harvard Pilgrim health Care Institute (HPHCI) notes that weight gain is a common reason why people discontinue antidepressant use. The potential for weight gain can be a significant deterrent for individuals seeking mental health treatment.
Several psychiatrists in major New York hospitals told The Post they avoid prescribing paxil because it causes more weight gain and sexual dysfunction than similar drugs and has the worst withdrawal symptoms. The combination of these adverse effects makes Paxil a less desirable option for some healthcare providers.
3. Mirtazapine
Mirtazapine, frequently known by its brand name Remeron, is frequently prescribed for patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or insomnia. Higher doses may be used to treat major depressive disorder. Dr. Forbes emphasizes caution when prescribing this medication to overweight patients. The potential for weight gain should be carefully considered when selecting treatment options for individuals already struggling with weight management.
“We specifically try to avoid this in patients who are overweight,”
explained Forbes. She also noted that the same medicine is given to animals as an appetite stimulant to increase body weight. This dual use underscores the potent appetite-stimulating effects of mirtazapine.
Dr. James Kocsis, a professor and psychiatrist at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, previously told The Post that Remeron (Mirtazapine) “is known to cause weight gain frequently because its anti-histaminic effect makes users sluggish.”
The antihistaminic properties contribute to both increased appetite and reduced physical activity, creating a perfect storm for weight gain.
As an alternative, Dr. forbes recommends trazodone as a potentially less appetite-stimulating option. Exploring alternative medications with fewer weight-related side effects can improve patient adherence and overall treatment outcomes.
4. Second-Generation Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics, also known as neuroleptics, are used to treat conditions like psychosis and schizophrenia. These medications are divided into two categories: first-generation (typical) and second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics. Dr. Forbes points out that second-generation antipsychotics, particularly Zyprexa and Seroquel, can lead to ample weight gain. The impact of these medications on weight can be ample and requires careful monitoring.
“The weight gain over a year can be massive, up to 30 to 50 pounds for some patients,”
she said. This significant weight gain can have profound implications for patients’ physical and mental health.
These drugs affect neuropeptides, signaling molecules involved in appetite control and food intake. Weight gain associated with antipsychotics is linked to antihistamine activity and serotonin 2C antagonism. The complex interplay of these factors contributes to the increased risk of weight gain.
“We have seven different types of serotonin receptors,”
she said. “Specifically,2C is where we get that side effect,the antagonism or blockade of that receptor.”
Understanding the specific mechanisms by which these drugs affect serotonin receptors is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate weight gain.
5. Dronabinol
Dronabinol is a synthetic form of THC used to stimulate appetite and treat nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy. It is indeed also used to address anorexia and weight loss in adult patients with HIV/AIDS. The primary purpose of dronabinol is to increase appetite and promote weight gain in individuals experiencing significant weight loss due to medical conditions.
6. Insulin
Insulin, a crucial hormone for regulating blood sugar, can also contribute to weight gain.Dr. Forbes explains that insulin facilitates the absorption of glucose into cells, but when cells absorb too much glucose, the body converts the excess into fat. The role of insulin in glucose metabolism makes it a key player in weight management.
“Insulin pushes glucose into cells vs. the bloodstream,”
Forbes expounds. “These are not to be confused with meds like ozempic/Mounjaro/Trulicity,etc., which are not insulins but also injected and refrigerated.”
It’s important to distinguish insulin from other injectable medications used for weight management,as they operate through different mechanisms.
Conclusion
Dr.Kati Forbes’s insights provide valuable data for individuals concerned about medication-related weight gain. By understanding the potential side effects of these six medications—Benadryl, Paxil, Mirtazapine, second-generation antipsychotics, Dronabinol, and insulin—patients can engage in informed discussions with their healthcare providers to explore alternative treatment options and manage their overall health effectively. Awareness is the first step toward making informed decisions and mitigating unwanted side effects. Proactive communication and collaborative decision-making are essential for optimizing treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse effects.
Unwanted Weight Gain: Is Your Medication to Blame? An Expert interview
“Did you know that some seemingly harmless medications can contribute to notable weight gain? It’s far more common than you might think.”
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Anya Sharma,a leading pharmacologist with over two decades of experience,joins us today to discuss the frequently enough-overlooked connection between certain medications and unexpected weight gain. Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. Let’s start with the basics: which medications are most frequently implicated in weight gain?
Dr. Sharma: Certainly. several classes of medications are known to contribute to weight increase as a common or less common side effect. These include certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and even some over-the-counter drugs. Specifically, we see this with first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as paroxetine (Paxil), and mirtazapine (Remeron), an atypical antidepressant. Second-generation antipsychotics, like olanzapine (Zyprexa) and quetiapine (Seroquel), are also notable culprits, often leading to considerable weight gain. Additionally, medications like dronabinol, used to stimulate appetite, and even insulin, due to its role in glucose metabolism, can contribute to weight changes.
Interviewer: Many readers are probably surprised to hear Benadryl on this list. Can you elaborate on how an allergy medication could lead to weight gain?
Dr.Sharma: It’s a common misconception that only prescription medications cause weight gain. benadryl, and first-generation antihistamines in general, work by blocking histamine receptors. However, histamine also plays a role in appetite regulation. By blocking these receptors, these medications can interfere with the body’s natural satiety signals, causing a feeling of prolonged hunger and leading to increased food intake. Essentially, your body’s “I’m full” signal gets muted. This effect is frequently enough more pronounced with long-term use.
Interviewer: Let’s talk about antidepressants. You mentioned Paxil; are all SSRIs linked to weight gain, or are some safer than others?
Dr. sharma: Not all SSRIs cause weight gain to the same degree. While some SSRIs are associated with more moderate weight changes,others,like paroxetine (Paxil),have a greater likelihood of inducing weight increase. This can be attributed to several factors, including the specific
Unwanted Weight Gain: Is Your Medication Secretly Sabotaging your diet? An Expert Interview
“Did you know that some seemingly harmless medications can contribute to significant weight gain? It’s far more common than you might think.”
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading pharmacologist with over two decades of experience, joins us today to discuss the often-overlooked connection between certain medications and unexpected weight gain. Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. Let’s start with the basics: which medications are most frequently implicated in weight gain?
Dr. Sharma: Certainly. Several classes of medications are known to contribute to weight increase as a common or less common side effect. these include certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and even some over-the-counter drugs. Specifically, we see this with first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as paroxetine (Paxil), and mirtazapine (Remeron), an atypical antidepressant. Second-generation antipsychotics, like olanzapine (Zyprexa) and quetiapine (Seroquel), are also notable culprits, often leading to considerable weight gain. Additionally, medications like dronabinol, used to stimulate appetite, and even insulin, due to its role in glucose metabolism, can contribute to weight changes.
Interviewer: Many readers are probably surprised to hear Benadryl on this list. Can you elaborate on how an allergy medication could lead to weight gain?
Dr. Sharma: It’s a common misconception that only prescription medications cause weight gain. Benadryl, and first-generation antihistamines in general, work by blocking histamine receptors. However, histamine also plays a crucial role in appetite regulation. By blocking these receptors, these medications can interfere with the body’s natural satiety signals, causing a feeling of prolonged hunger and leading to increased food intake. Essentially, your body’s “I’m full” signal gets muted. This effect is often more pronounced with long-term use.
Interviewer: Let’s talk about antidepressants. You mentioned Paxil; are all SSRIs linked to weight gain, or are some safer than others?
Dr. Sharma: Not all SSRIs cause weight gain to the same degree. While some ssris are associated with more moderate weight changes, others, like paroxetine (Paxil), have a greater likelihood of inducing weight increase.This can be attributed to several factors, including the specific mechanisms of action and individual patient responses. It’s crucial to discuss potential side effects, including weight gain, with your doctor before starting any antidepressant. They can help you weigh the benefits against the risks and explore choice options if necessary.
Interviewer: What about atypical antipsychotics? Are they equally likely to cause ample weight gain?
Dr.sharma: Second-generation antipsychotics, while often more effective in managing certain symptoms compared to their first-generation counterparts, can also lead to significant weight gain. Drugs like olanzapine (Zyprexa) and quetiapine (Seroquel) are particularly known for this side effect. The mechanism isn’t fully understood but is likely related to their effects on various neurotransmitter systems involved in appetite regulation and metabolism. Regular monitoring of weight and metabolic parameters is vital for patients taking these medications.
Interviewer: What practical advice can you offer to readers concerned about medication-induced weight gain?
Dr. Sharma:
Open communication with your Doctor: Discuss your concerns about weight gain with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual risk factors and help you manage any side effects.
Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular physical activity.These lifestyle changes can definitely help mitigate the impact of medication-induced weight gain.
Medication Review: Regularly review your medications with your doctor to see if there are alternative options with a lower risk of weight gain.
Monitoring and Tracking: Regularly monitor weight and other relevant health indicators.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for sharing your expertise and valuable insights. This details empowers readers to make more informed choices about their health.
Dr. Sharma: you’re welcome. Remember, proactive communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing any potential side effects of your medications, including unexpected weight gain.
Final Thought: Medication-induced weight gain is a serious concern that affects many individuals. Open communication with your doctor,a healthy lifestyle,and regular medication reviews are crucial for managing this side effect effectively. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!