Does Metoprolol Cause Weight Gain?
There are a number of possible side effects with
metoprolol (
Lopressor®,
Toprol XL®). Gradual weight gain does appear to be a documented side effect of metoprolol (the prescribing information for Lopressor and
Toprol XL does not list gradual weight gain as a possible side effect). However, rapid weight gain is 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:
- Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
- 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.)
