Metoprolol and Weight Gain

There are many possible side effects that are associated with the use of metoprolol, and weight gain is a rare side effect that is documented in less than 1 percent of patients. Since metoprolol may potentially cause or worsen congestive heart failure, and a main symptom of heart failure is unexplained weight gain, be sure to notify your healthcare provider immediately if you develop unexplained weight gain or swelling.

 

Metoprolol and Weight Gain: An Overview

There are a number of possible side effects with metoprolol (available as Lopressor®, Toprol XL®, and generic metoprolol). Gradual weight gain does appear to be a side effect that is reported very rarely (less than 1 percent of people). This data comes from clinical trials where metoprolol was extensively studied and side effects were documented. The challenge is, given how infrequently weight gain was reported with metoprolol, it is difficult to say whether it is actually caused by the medicine, other specific factors, or a combination of factors. Rapid weight gain is also a reported side effect with all beta blockers, including metoprolol (see below).
 

Rapid Weight Gain With Metoprolol

One very important point to keep in mind is that all beta blockers, including metoprolol, may worsen congestive heart failure or, in some cases, even cause heart failure. One of the main symptoms of heart failure is unexplained weight gain. In fact, people with symptoms of congestive heart failure can often have rapid weight gain over a couple of days. This weight gain is often combined with other symptoms, such as a cough and/or swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs. Make sure to contact your healthcare provider if you notice unexplained weight gain or swelling.
 

Metoprolol and Weight Gain: Suggestions

If you are noticing gradual weight gain while taking metoprolol, there are some things that you can do.
 Some suggestions include:
 
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet, including:
o Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
o Limited amounts of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
  • Participating in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
     
  • Limiting your intake of alcohol.
     
Also, if you are noticing weight gain with metoprolol, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can give you other suggestions for dealing with any weight gain. If the weight gain continues, he or she may also recommend other lifestyle choices or a switch to another medicine.
 
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;