Some medical conditions, including cancer, can cause undesired weight loss. Megestrol (Megace ES), dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros), and oxandrolone are FDA-approved
Megestrol (Megace ES) comes as an oral liquid. Dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros) comes in oral capsules or a liquid. Growth hormone analogs, such as somatropin (Serostim), are typically administered as injections. These options provide various ways to help you gain weight gain effectively.
But insulin isn't the only type 2 treatment that carries this side effect. Sulfonylureas (such as glyburide, glipizide and glimepiride) reduce blood sugar levels by 20 percent, but they can also can also cause a weight gain of 4 to 5 pounds on average, according to a study published in Archives of Medical Science.
Although megestrol acetate, oxandrolone, and dronabinol are the only drugs that the FDA have approved as appetite stimulants, some other medications have the side effect of increasing appetite. Some doctors may prescribe them off-label, or for their primary purpose, for this reason.
It's important to stress that not everyone who takes Lexapro gains weight. Still, some patients note weight gain while taking the medication.
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.
Topamax isn't known to cause weight gain. This side effect wasn't reported in clinical trials with Topamax. However, weight gain has been reported with some anticonvulsant drugs that are in the same class as Topamax.
Steroids, the birth control shot, and some beta blockers can also cause weight gain. Lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, may be helpful in managing this side effect. If you're concerned about gaining weight from your medications, talk to your healthcare provider.
If you are overweight or obese and concerned about weight gain that cannot otherwise be explained, you may want to consult an endocrinologist for assistance in learning more about your condition and the most appropriate treatment options.
Your health care provider may suggest a weight-loss drug for you in some cases. These include if you haven't been able to lose weight through diet and exercise and your: Body mass index (BMI) is greater than 30. This means you're living with a condition that involves having too much body fat, called obesity.
Megestrol (Megace ES), dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros), and oxandrolone are FDA-approved appetite stimulants that can promote weight gain and nutritional intake when needed. Mirtazapine (Remeron) is an antidepressant that's sometimes taken off-label to boost appetite.
If you're asking yourself, “Why am I gaining weight when I barely eat,” several factors may be at play. Your body may be holding onto fat stores if your eating habits are inconsistent or restricted. Or, your weight gain may be the effect of a sedentary lifestyle, medical condition, or long-term stress.
Start by increasing your calorie and protein intake by eating every few hours. Take supplements, if needed, for that extra boost. Work out hard in order to turn any extra calories into muscle, not fat. If you plateau or need additional help, talk with a dietitian or personal trainer.
Dronabinol (also known by its brand name, Marinol) is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting from anticancer medications. It's also approved as an appetite stimulant for people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Successful weight gain requires that you increase your daily intake of carbohydrates. Avoid low carbohydrate diets. Eating vast amounts of dietary protein won't make your muscles grow faster and will put unnecessary pressure on your body, especially your kidneys. Avoid high-protein diets.
You may be born naturally small and your low BMI can be due to your genes. You may have a very high metabolism and find it hard to put on weight, even if you eat foods that have a lot of calories. You may not follow a healthy, balanced diet because you forget to eat or cannot afford nutritious foods.