Introduction to Gabapentin and Weight Gain. Gabapentin, an anticonvulsant medication, is widely used for treating seizure disorders and neuropathic pain. However, a notable side effect observed in some patients is weight gain. This article explores the reasons behind gabapentin-induced weight gain, drawing insights from various research studies. Other gabapentin side effects include edema (fluid buildup), weight gain, and eye problems, but these aren’t as common. Rare but serious gabapentin side effects include mood changes in children. It can also cause suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children and adults. Lynn in Mobile, Alabama, warns about weight gain from gabapentin (she isn’t the only one): “I have been on gabapentin (800 mg 3 x daily) for about 13 years. It was prescribed for spinal problems and pain problems in general. When I first started gabapentin, it worked great. Why Does Gabapentin Cause Weight Gain? Gabapentin, a medication primarily used to manage seizures and nerve pain, is increasingly prescribed for various conditions. While effective for these purposes, a significant concern among patients is its potential to cause weight gain. This side effect is not universal, but it’s common enough to 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. 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: 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 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. Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause 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 Unfortunately, weight gain is a common side effect of many medications. From a fluctuation in hormones to water retention to changes in appetite, drugs like gabapentin can cause some unwanted weight gain. That’s why our Palm Springs drug rehab also incorporates healthy and nutritional meals in patients’ treatment plans. If you’ve started 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 in some people due to increased appetite, fluid retention or lack of exercise. Learn how to avoid weight gain and what to do if you experience it while taking gabapentin for epilepsy or nerve pain. Gabapentin is thought to cause weight gain by increasing patients’ appetites and causing fatigue that reduces their physical activity. It can also cause water retention, with swelling (edema) of the hands, arms, feet, and legs, which may contribute to weight gain. Related: Does Trazodone cause weight gain? One study found that in patients 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. Why does Gabapentin cause weight gain? The reason why gabapentin causes weight gain isn’t entirely clear, but other side effects of the medication may be part of the problem. Fatigue, which is the most common side effect of gabapentin, could lead to limited physical activity and subsequent weight gain. How to Avoid Weight Gain on Gabapentin . If you’re worried that this drug is causing you to gain weight, here are 6 steps you can take to prevent it. #1 Eat smaller portions . Eating larger portions can quickly contribute to weight gain. When cooking and serving your meals, eat smaller portions to combat the urge to overeat. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Gabapentin is a nerve medication that may cause weight gain in some patients. The best way to manage gabapentin weight gain is with a good diet and healthy habits. A registered dietitian is an excellent partner to help navigate weight changes as a result of medication. Gabapentin can cause weight gain by increasing fluid retention in the legs (edema) or appetite. Learn how much weight you may gain, what factors affect it, and how to avoid it. Gabapentin is a drug for nerve pain and seizures that may cause weight gain in some people. Learn how gabapentin affects appetite, activity, and swelling, and how to manage weight gain with lifestyle changes or medications.
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