Does Gabapentin Cause Weight Gain? Drug Explained

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There is always the potential for unwanted symptoms when taking prescription drugs, from gastrointestinal issues to mood changes.

One of the most common and undesirable outcomes accompanying certain medicines is weight gain. As most of us typically want to drop a few pounds, gaining weight from our meds can be a shock.

You may have heard that treatment for mood disorders, diabetes, and high blood pressure can add unwanted pounds, but you might be unfamiliar with other medications, such as those that treat epilepsy and nerve pain. 

As a popular prescription drug in the US for the treatment of epilepsy, restless leg syndrome, and neuropathic pain, you might be wondering if gabapentin can change your body weight. 

Keep reading as we cover everything you need to know about the relationship between gabapentin and weight gain.

How Gabapentin Causes Weight Gain

Although it is not one of the most common side effects, gabapentin (also known by brand names Neurontin and Gralise) can contribute to weight gain in some patients, especially at higher doses. 

It’s helpful to understand why this might happen before you start taking gabapentin medication to know how to cope should you experience this effect. 

Here are 3 reasons why your baseline weight might change. 

#1 It can make you hungry

An increased appetite means you feel hungrier than usual. It’s normal to want to eat more than you usually would to eliminate hunger pangs and satisfy cravings. This, of course, can lead to unwanted weight gain.

#2 It may cause fatigue

Drowsiness is one of the most common side effects of the drug. The anti-seizure medication alters brain activity by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter that blocks brain signals.

The sleepiness effect is likely more prevalent when you begin taking gabapentin and may ease off as you adjust to the drug.

If you’re frequently feeling tired, sleepy, and dizzy, it can negatively impact your mood. You may lack motivation, leading you to miss out on your usual physical activity and increasing the risk of putting on weight.

A more sedentary lifestyle may cause your metabolism to slow down as you decrease the number of calories you burn each day.

If your lethargy doesn’t wear off, it can wind up causing fatigue. It’s worth checking in with your doctor as they may be able to tweak the dose or provide you with a different medication.

#3 It may cause water retention 

Water retention, or edema, can cause physical bloating and swelling, notably in the hands, arms, feet, and legs, causing you to gain weight. 

Peripheral edema has been known to occur as a potential adverse effect of gabapentin, while fluid retention occurred in 1 in 10 people taking gabapentin.

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. This is an essential weight loss tip, but it also aids weight management and promotes a more mindful relationship with food.

#2 Opt for a balanced diet

Eating a clean diet rich in whole foods and essential nutrients is a top habit to form for weight management. If you begin to gain weight, managing what you eat is critical for taking control of the dreaded side effect. 

A balanced diet includes an adequate macros ratio of healthy fats, protein, and carbs. Limit the foods that don’t benefit your health, drink plenty of water, and if you’re hungrier than usual, opt for low-calorie snacks that won’t impact your weight.

#3 Avoid foods with added sugar

While the prescribed drug can potentially trigger sugar cravings, you should always opt out of eating refined foods with added sugar. Consuming too much added sugar significantly increases your risk of gaining pounds and chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.  

#4 Exercise more

Increasing your exercise regimen will ensure you continue to burn any extra calories you may have consumed while taking the drug due to an overactive appetite. Exercising can help you lose weight, too, if that’s your goal.

#5 Avoid alcohol

Alcohol and Neurontin do not mix. You should avoid combining the two, as each depresses the nervous system, worsening the adverse effects of sleepiness and dizziness. 

Aside from the dangers, alcohol is high in calories, prevents you from burning fat, and tricks you into thinking you’re hungry.

#6 Talk to your doctor

It’s essential to consult your doctor if you are concerned about weight gain. 

They may suggest alternative options, such as decreasing your dose, slowly increasing it, or switching to a different drug.

FAQs

Conclusion

Unfortunately, gabapentin can lead some patients to gain weight. However, the occurrence is considered rare and is unlikely to affect most people. 

The good news is that you can elude weight gain by leading a healthy lifestyle that combines a balanced diet with regular physical activity. Always speak to your doctor if you are concerned about taking your prescribed drug, especially if you plan to take other medications simultaneously.