Which medications are hidden fatteners?

Some medications can be considered "hidden fatteners" because they have weight gain as a side effect. Here are some categories and specific medications known for this side effect.

Antidepressants such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, paroxetine and citalopram can cause weight gain. This can partly be explained by the fact that people who are less depressed will have a greater appetite. Allergy medications such as cetirizine and diphenhydramine also cause weight gain.

Antipsychotics such as olanzapine, risperidone, quetiapine, haloperidol and chlorpromazine can cause weight gain due to metabolic side effects. Corticosteroids such as prednisone and dexamethasone also cause weight gain for the same reason. This is also known for anti-seizure medications such as valproate and gabapentin. A metabolic side effect is also seen with medications such as metoprolol and atenolol, used to treat high blood pressure and heart problems.

Oral contraceptives and other hormonal treatments such as some forms of hormone replacement therapy. diabetes medications such as insulin, glipizide and glyburide cause weight gain.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537590/

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-05-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024