Shouldn't one avoid consuming medications on their own?
Feeling the Scale Creep Up? Check Your Meds!
(Updated news from Frankfurt am Main - dpa/tmn)
It's business as usual, but then, the scales suddenly tip the wrong way? Don't sweat it, according to the Hessian Chamber of Pharmacists, some medications could be the culprit for those extra pounds.
Certain prescribed drugs may stimulate appetite, mess with metabolism and hormone systems, curb physical activity, or cause fluid retention, resulting in unexpected weight gain. If those extra kilos can't be explained by diet and exercise alone, it's time to consult a healthcare provider.
Medications that Might Pack on the Pounds
Here's a breakdown of some medications known to potentially contribute to weight gain, according to the Chamber of Pharmacists:
- Psychotropic medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and certain atypical antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine).
- Antidiabetics like insulin and certain oral hypoglycemics, such as sulfonylureas and thiazolidinediones.
- Beta-blockers, commonly used for hypertension and heart conditions.
- Corticosteroids, long-term use of glucocorticoids like prednisone.
- Hormones, such as hormone therapy for prostate cancer.
- HIV therapeutics.
Recognizing Weight Gain Caused by Medication
Pharmacists suggest the following signs that weight gain could be a side effect of medication:
- Persistent hunger
- Weight maintenance despite improved eating habits and lifestyle
- Starting a new medication recently
Don't Go Cold Turkey Without Consulting a Doc
If you suspect your medication might be causing weight gain, don't stop the treatment on your own. This could jeopardize the treatment's effectiveness. Instead, schedule a medical check-up to explore options. Your treating physician could consider alternative active ingredients that won't affect weight or even reduce it. A healthier lifestyle can also help counteract weight gain.
It's best to discuss the risk of weight gain with your doctor when prescribed a new medication, the pharmacists advise. Beyond impacting self-esteem, excess weight can lead to chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and increase the risk of accidents. Regular checks can help detect weight gain caused by medication early on.
In summary, if you're gaining weight and suspect it's due to your medications, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. Besides affecting self-worth, weight gain can lead to health complications. By being aware and proactive, you can maintain a healthy weight while managing your medical conditions effectively.
- The unexpected weight gain could potentially be caused by psychotropic medications, antidiabetics, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, hormones, HIV therapeutics, or other similar medications that have been identified by the Hessian Chamber of Pharmacists.
- If you notice persistent hunger, weight maintenance despite improved eating habits and lifestyle, or have recently started a new medication, it might indicate that weight gain could be a side effect of the medication. In such cases, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable to discuss alternative treatment options.
