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Which Medications Cause Weight Gain? Understanding Common Medications That Impact Your Weight

Updated: Sep 25

When you're focused on achieving or maintaining a healthy weight, the last thing you might expect is for your medications to be working against you. Yet, some commonly prescribed medications can cause unwanted weight gain, often making it harder to lose pounds even with diet and exercise. Understanding which medications may affect your weight is crucial for your overall health and well-being.

Which Medications Cause Weight Gain? Understanding Comm

In this blog, we'll explore how medications such as anti-diabetes drugs, prednisone for autoimmune diseases, and even opioids and benzodiazepines can contribute to weight gain. Armed with this knowledge, you can take steps to manage your weight while working with your healthcare provider.


1. Anti-Diabetes Medications and Weight Gain


Diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and while medications play a vital role in managing blood sugar levels, some of them can lead to weight gain. The following are common anti-diabetes drugs known to have this side effect:


Is insulin causing my weight gain?

Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar by allowing cells to absorb glucose. For those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, insulin is often necessary to prevent dangerously high blood sugar levels. However, insulin therapy can cause weight gain.


The reason is simple: insulin helps the body store fat. When blood sugar is well-controlled, the body converts excess glucose into fat for storage. While insulin is essential for many diabetics, it may lead to increased fat accumulation, especially if calorie intake is not carefully monitored.


Is Glipizide causing my weight gain?

Glipizide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas, which stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. Though effective at lowering blood sugar, one of the common side effects of Glipizide is weight gain. Similar to insulin, this weight gain occurs because of the increased fat storage that results from the additional insulin produced. If you're taking Glipizide and concerned about your weight, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider about alternative treatments or lifestyle adjustments that may help mitigate weight gain.


Actos (Pioglitazone)

Actos, another medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. While effective for blood sugar control, Actos is notorious for causing weight gain, primarily due to water retention and fat accumulation. Studies show that patients using Actos can experience significant weight gain, making it difficult to manage both their diabetes and weight. This may be particularly challenging for those already working to lose weight.


2. Prednisone and Weight Gain in Autoimmune Diseases


Is Prednisone causing my weight gain?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Crohn’s disease. While highly effective in reducing inflammation and managing symptoms, long-term use of prednisone is frequently associated with weight gain.





Prednisone increases appetite, alters the way your body stores fat, and may cause water retention. The "moon face" appearance, or puffiness in the face, is a common side effect linked to weight gain from prednisone use. Weight gain can be especially problematic for individuals who must take prednisone for extended periods to control their autoimmune symptoms.


3. Opioids, Benzodiazepines, and Metabolism Slowing

In addition to medications used for chronic conditions, other types of drugs can indirectly lead to weight gain by affecting your metabolism and energy levels.


Are Opioid medications causing my weight gain?

Opioids, such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, are powerful pain relievers. While they are effective for managing acute or chronic pain, long-term opioid use can slow down your metabolism. Opioids reduce the body's overall energy expenditure, meaning that fewer calories are burned throughout the day. This can lead to gradual weight gain, especially in individuals already prone to obesity or sedentary lifestyles due to chronic pain.


Is Xanax causing my Weight gain?

Benzodiazepines, like Xanax, Ativan, or Valium, are often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. Though these medications help manage stress and promote relaxation, they can also slow down metabolism and reduce physical activity levels. Additionally, benzodiazepines are linked to increased appetite, which can lead to overeating and, subsequently, weight gain.


Managing Medication-Induced Weight Gain

If you're taking any of the medications listed above and notice weight gain, it's important to understand that this is a common side effect. However, there are strategies you can implement to manage your weight:

  1. Discuss Alternatives with Your Doctor: There may be alternative medications available that have a lower risk of causing weight gain. For example, some diabetes medications such as metformin are weight-neutral or even help with weight loss.

  2. Monitor Your Diet: While medications may make it more challenging to manage your weight, keeping a close eye on your calorie intake can help. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables.

  3. Stay Active: Regular exercise can help counterbalance the metabolic effects of medications like opioids and benzodiazepines. Incorporating both aerobic exercise and strength training can boost your metabolism and help manage your weight.

  4. Track Your Progress: Keeping a food and activity journal can help you stay accountable and aware of changes in your weight. This will also provide valuable information to discuss with your healthcare provider if you have concerns.


Final Thoughts

Medications like insulin, Glipizide, Actos, prednisone, opioids, and benzodiazepines are essential for treating a range of chronic conditions, but they can also contribute to weight gain. If you're concerned about your weight, especially while taking these medications, working closely with your healthcare provider is the first step to managing it. At Weight MD, we specialize in helping patients manage weight gain related to medication use, offering personalized plans to fit your needs and lifestyle. Let us help you decipher the difficult maze of medications that can be contributing to your weight gain. By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your health and achieve your weight goals, even while managing chronic conditions.



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