Has your weight crept up even though you haven’t changed your diet? That happens more than people think. Food and activity matter, but medications, hormones, and treatments can play a big role. This quick guide helps you spot common drug- and health-related causes and gives clear steps to tackle them.
Some medicines are known for causing weight changes. Antipsychotics like Risperdal (risperidone) can increase appetite and lead to weight gain. Steroid drugs (for inflammation) often cause fluid retention and increased appetite — if you’re on prednisolone or similar, check our article on alternatives to Prelone. Certain blood-pressure drugs and other chronic medicines can also shift your weight over time. Hormone changes around menopause or from hormone treatments may add pounds too.
It’s not just meds. Slower metabolism with age, low thyroid, and reduced activity during recovery (surgery, injury) all add up. If weight gain came on fast or with swelling, breathing trouble, or big mood shifts, see a clinician right away.
First rule: don’t stop or change medication on your own. Instead, list your meds and bring that list to your provider. Ask whether a different drug or a lower dose could help — for example, there are alternatives to metoprolol and steroid options that may have less weight impact.
Small daily changes add up. Prioritize protein and fiber at meals to feel full longer, cut sugary drinks, and add a short strength session two or three times a week to keep muscle and metabolism. Sleep matters: poor sleep raises appetite hormones. Track weight and meals for a few weeks — patterns often show up fast.
If medication is the likely cause, ask your prescriber about: switching to an alternative, adjusting dose, or adding a plan to manage side effects. Some drugs that influence appetite or metabolism might be paired with lifestyle support, or a different class of medication may be available. Read our piece on Risperdal, and consider articles on steroid alternatives and metformin (which affects appetite in people with diabetes) for context.
If you want direct reading, check these related guides on CanadianPharmacyService.com: "Risperdal Uses, Side Effects, Experiences," "10 Alternatives to Prelone," and "Metformin: The Revolutionary Diabetes Drug Aiding Weight Loss by Suppressing Hunger." They explain what to expect and what to ask your doctor.
Bottom line: unexplained weight gain often has a fix. Talk with your healthcare team, look into safer drug options if needed, and use focused lifestyle steps to regain control. If you want help finding the right article or preparing questions for your doctor, reach out through our contact page — we’ll point you to the most relevant resources.
In my recent blog post, I delved into the potential side effect of weight gain associated with Itraconazole, a commonly prescribed antifungal medication. I discovered that while weight gain is not a widely recognized side effect, some patients have reported it as an issue during treatment. The exact mechanism behind this weight gain is not fully understood, but it could be related to changes in appetite or metabolism. It's crucial for patients to discuss any concerns about potential side effects with their healthcare providers, as an alternative treatment may be available. Although weight gain might not be a common side effect, it's important to be aware of the possibility and monitor any changes in weight while taking Itraconazole.
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