Certain Medications May lead to weight Gain
Table of Contents
By Amelia Smith | FRANKFURT – 2025/06/16 23:46:53
Feeling like you’ve “eaten and moved as always, but suddenly the number on the scales increases?” The Hesse State Pharmacist reports that certain medications can, in some instances, lead to weight gain.
According to the pharmacist, some active ingredients in medications “could stimulate appetite, influence the metabolism and the hormone system, make physically sluggish or lead to fluid deposits.” If unexplained weight gain occurs, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Which Medications Might Cause Weight Gain?
The Chamber of Pharmacists has identified the following medications as potentially contributing to weight gain:
- Different types of psychotropic drugs
- Some anti-diabetics, such as insulin
- Some beta blockers
- Cortisone
- Hormones, such as hormone therapy for prostate cancer
- HIV-Therapeutika
“Certain active ingredients could stimulate appetite, influence the metabolism and the hormone system…or lead to fluid deposits.”
The pharmacists indicate that the following signs may suggest medication-related weight gain:
- Constant appetite
- Constant weight despite improved eating habits
- Taking a new medication in the past few weeks
The pharmacists strongly advise against discontinuing medication independently if weight gain is a concern,as this “endangers the success of the treatment.”
Instead,consult a doctor to explore available options. “The treating doctor can check, for example, whether there is an alternative active ingredient that cannot influence or even reduce weight.” If alternatives are unavailable, adopting a healthier lifestyle can help counteract weight gain.
Ideally, “patients discuss the risk of weight gain with their doctor if they are prescribed a new medication,” according to the pharmacists.
This is crucial because “along with the effects on self-esteem, obesity can lead to chronic diseases such as high blood pressure or gout and increase the risk of accidents. Regular checks could help recognize a medication-related additional weight at an early stage.”
