Feb 25, 2008, 3:08 GMT
Marburg, Germany - Certain medicines, including psychotropic drugs and beta blockers, can lead to undesired weight gain.
Psychotropic drugs and beta blockers affect the body's hormonal balance and can increase appetite while at the same time decreasing one's energy level, according to the German Green Cross based in Marburg.
The weight gain can be countered by switching to another drug or by being more conscious of nutrition. Switching to ACE inhibitors or diuretics can counter the weight gain as long as there are no medical contraindications such as heart disease, said the organization.
Psychotropic drugs, including neuroleptics and antidepressants, can increase appetite, thus promoting weight gain.
Drugs suspected of causing weight gain, however, should not simply be discontinued. Patients should consult a pharmacist or other specialist before making changes in their medications.
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