A meta-study found that gabapentin was associated with weight gain of 2.2 kg (4.8lbs) after 1.5 months of use. [6] Weight gain is definitely not inevitable with gabapentin. Gabapentin use in pediatric patients. Gabapentin is approved for use in children 3 years of age and older for certain indications٫ such as partial seizures. The dosage for pediatric patients is determined based on their weight and specific condition. Gabapentin is used to control seizures, to treat nerve pain that can happen after having had shingles, and to treat a condition called restless legs syndrome. In addition to these FDA-approved uses, doctors sometimes prescribe gabapentin off-label. To avoid weight gain from gabapentin, make sure you’re taking the dose your prescriber recommends. Taking higher doses of gabapentin increases your risk of weight gain and severe side effects like extreme drowsiness. 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. 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. 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. Weight gain is not considered a common side effect of gabapentin. In clinical trials, only about 2% of people reported weight gain with its use. In people who do gain weight while on gabapentin, a research study showed a weight gain of about 5.5 pounds after 1.5 months of use. Higher doses and longer treatment periods increase your risk of weight gain [11]. People who take Gabapentin might gain about 5 pounds after just 6 weeks of use [12]. Weight gain affected 3% of patients over 12 years old with epilepsy, compared to 2% who took a placebo [12]. 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. weight gain; Managing side effects Sharbrough FW, Krahn LE (1996) "Movement disorders associated with the use of gabapentin." Epilepsia, 37, p. 988-90. 17. Silvia Gabapentin itself does not directly cause weight gain. However, it may indirectly contribute to weight gain in a few ways. Increased appetite: Some individuals may experience an increase in appetite while taking gabapentin. This can lead to consuming more calories and, ultimately, weight gain. 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. The treatment can also stimulate appetites and serotonin levels in some individuals, which again causes overeating—weight gain. Gabapentine and Weight Gain Studies Several studies evaluated the link between Gabapentin use and weight gain. While some studies came up empty on findings, others presented solid results demonstrating the possible 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: 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. 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. It’s important to understand that not everyone on gabapentin will gain weight, and the amount of weight gained varies significantly among individuals. Studies have shown that some people may gain approximately 5 pounds after six weeks of use , although this can differ widely. Gabapentin can be a valuable tool in managing various health conditions, but long-term use comes with potential risks. From physical side effects like weight gain and fatigue to cognitive and emotional challenges, it’s essential to be aware of how this medication may affect you over time. Increased Appetite: Gabapentin can lead to an increase in hunger, making it difficult to maintain a balanced diet, which can result in weight gain over time. Fluid Retention (Edema): As mentioned, gabapentin can cause edema, especially in the lower extremities.
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