Gabapentin may affect appetite regulation, potentially leading to weight gain. In this discussion, we’ll explore the relationship between gabapentin and weight gain, along with factors that may contribute to this phenomenon. How Gabapentin Causes Weight Gain: List of Possibilities. Gabapentin has a poorly understood mechanism of action and weight gain is uncommon. Since there is some confusion regarding the precise neurophysiological effects of the drug, it is difficult to pinpoint the specific cause of weight gain. Gabapentin may cause weight gain, but it is an uncommon side effect. Studies have shown that a small number of people taking gabapentin, a drug used to treat epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia, experienced weight gain. People who do gain weight may gain about 5 pounds after 6 weeks of use. More rarely, gabapentin can cause fluid buildup (edema), weight gain, and vision problems. It can also cause diarrhea. More serious (but rare) side effects include suicidal thoughts or behavior, and mood changes in children. Gabapentin may cause weight gain by increasing your appetite, causing fluid retention, and inhibiting physical activity by causing fatigue. Because gabapentin is an anticonvulsant, it prevents seizures and nerve pain by reducing nerve activity in the central nervous system. Gabapentin can cause weight gain, but it’s not a common side effect. It can happen due to several reasons, such as increased appetite, fluid retention, or decreased physical activity due to fatigue. Yes, gabapentin can cause weight gain. One review article looking at weight gain from medications found an average weight gain of almost 5 pounds after just 1.5 months on gabapentin. Patients who have been prescribed gabapentin are often concerned about weight gain as a side effect. However, they should note, weight gain is a very rare side effect, observed in less than 5% of patients. In cases where weight gain does occur, it is typically a result of an increased appetite or reduced exercise caused by the drug. This piece looks at how Gabapentin and weight gain are connected. You'll learn about why these changes might happen and what you can do about them. We'll get into the scientific evidence, risk factors, and practical ways to maintain a healthy weight while taking this medication. My Dr. said that Lyrica (pregabalin) causes terrible weight gain, but not Gabapentin. I have read that weight gain on Gabapentin can be dose-related. I’ve noticed that I do get hungry more often, so I log everything I eat to make sure I’m not eating too much. I’m still wearing the same size clothing after 2 years, so the weight gain isn A review of research examining antipsychotic medicine explains why: Most of those drugs cause weight gain. Over the course of treatment, around 7 in 10 patients will gain weight — rapidly in the initial period after starting these meds, but it continues over the long term. The risk appears to be highest with: Olanzapine (Zyprexa) Clozapine I have been on Gabapentin 2400 mg per day and have gained 30 pounds in a short time and just wanted to know if this med causes the weight gain or is it just due to me eating more. Answer. Yes, weight gain is a possible side effect for gabapentin (brand name Neurontin). The incidence of weight gain with gabapentin varies by product: 1. How much weight can I expect to gain on gabapentin? Weight gain is highly individual and varies widely. While some studies report about 5 pounds gained in 6 weeks, individual results can differ significantly, and not everyone gains weight. 2. Does gabapentin always cause weight gain? No, gabapentin doesn’t always cause weight gain. Many The question of how quickly gabapentin might lead to weight gain is a common concern for those starting this medication. The answer isn’t immediate, and it varies from person to person. However, research suggests a general timeline. Weight increase typically begins between the second and third months of gabapentin treatment in most patients. Gabapentin may cause serious or life threatening Ask your doctor for advice on diet and exercise to help maintain a moderate weight if you’re concerned about possible weight gain from Gabapentin can make you hungrier, so it can be hard to stop yourself putting on weight. Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet without increasing your portion sizes. Do not snack on foods that contain a lot of calories, such as crisps, cakes, biscuits and sweets. If you feel hungry between meals, eat fruit and vegetables and low-calorie foods. Gabapentin can cause fluid buildup in the legs (edema), which can lead to temporary weight gain. You can also gain weight without fluid buildup, though it’s not common. You may be able to avoid weight gain from gabapentin by adjusting your diet and exercising regularly. A 300mg dose of gabapentin can potentially cause weight gain, though not in everyone, and the likelihood can depend on individual circumstances and lifestyle factors. It’s important to monitor your own body and weight while on this medication. Gidal BE, Maly MM, Nemire RE, Haley K (1995) "Weight gain and gabapentin therapy." Ann Pharmacother, 29, Does it cause weight gain? How long does it take to work?
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