Weight gain has been shown in clinical research and is a potential negative effect of Xanax. Alprazolam is Xanax’s generic name.
Additionally, Xanax users who have persistent fatigue may become less active, which might result in weight gain.
Modifications to the sleep cycle and appetite are two additional factors that might result in weight gain. Insomnia and an increase in appetite are further Xanax adverse effects that may occur.
Does Xanax Cause Weight Gain?
One of the most frequent adverse effects of Xanax is fatigue. Higher doses of Xanax often increase the likelihood of it happening, while it can also happen at lesser levels, depending on each person’s metabolism. If Xanax is used for longer lengths of time, fatigue is also more typical. People reduce their physical activity in this way, which leads to weight gain.
The central nervous system is calmed with Xanax. Both your sleep and your appetite may be impacted by this. Additionally, Xanax users may have sleeplessness.
Additionally strongly associated with weight increase is insomnia. Additionally linked to changes in appetite, insomnia also contributes to weight gain. A Xanax adverse effect that was mentioned was an increase in hunger.
It’s crucial to remember that Xanax also contributed to weight loss and decreased hunger in clinical research. Weight increase, weight reduction, and hunger changes were all negative effects that also affected the placebo group of patients. A placebo is an inactive substance that is made to resemble a treatment.
Why Does Xanax Cause Weight Gain?
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the drug Xanax approval as a treatment for anxiety and panic disorders. To avoid more severe side effects, dependence, and withdrawal risks, Xanax should be used for the shortest amount of time and at the lowest effective dose possible (it should also not be mixed with alcohol).
The following things may cause you to gain weight while using Xanax:
- Higher Xanax doses are linked to more pronounced central nervous system depressive effects that can impact your mood. People may feel depressed as a result of this or the symptoms of depression may intensify. People who are depressed frequently lack the will to do anything and may spend days in bed or doing nothing.
- Xanax works by inhibiting the main inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which lowers your energy levels. Xanax mediates the relaxing or inhibiting actions of alprazolam on the human neurological system when coupled to the GABA-A receptor. People on Xanax may experience low energy, fatigue, or even exhaustion as a result of this.
- Changes in appetite: Xanax has the potential to both enhance and decrease hunger. Additionally, it might interfere with your sleeping patterns, which might make you less hungry. Increased hunger is linked to poor sleep.
Effects on Weight Gain of Short-Term vs. Long-Term Use
Although it is frequently done, long-term Xanax use is generally debatable and not advised. Xanax should only be taken temporarily or only when absolutely necessary.
When Xanax was taken in clinical trials for up to 10 weeks, 28% of participants gained weight. It’s vital to note that 24% of participants reported weight loss, whereas 17% and 18%, respectively, of participants in the placebo group, reported weight growth and weight loss.
If you are worried about weight changes during treatment, talk to your doctor before using Xanax. 2
Read more: Lyme Disease Weight Gain: How Did Lyme Disease Affect Weight In 2022?
Tips for Controlling Xanax Weight Gain
While weight gain may be a side effect, let your doctor know so you can talk about whether the advantages of taking this anxiety medication exceed the drawbacks. Always talk to your doctor before making any independent adjustments.
Read more: Mirena Iud Weight Gain: What Is the Side Effects of Mirena Iud?
Some strategies for controlling Xanax-related weight gain include:
- Reduce the frequency and dose of the drug to see whether your energy levels improve.
- Alternate medications: There may be other drugs that can treat anxiety and panic episodes that do not have an impact on weight.
- Eat healthily and with more awareness: Maintaining a healthy weight can also be facilitated by eating with awareness; Plan your meals to avoid overeating following extended periods of undereating
- Activity more: In order to maintain a healthy weight, a balanced diet and more exercise are required.
- Work with a dietitian to control caloric intake and nutrition: If you struggle to lose weight despite changing your eating habits, consult with a dietitian will be of great assistance.
Read more: Mirtazapine Weight Gain: What Is the Side Effects of Mirtazapine?
Ask Your Health Team These Questions About Xanax Weight Gain
Although it is not a common side effect of Xanax, weight gain has been seen. It’s vital to discuss your treatment plan with your doctor and to express any worries you may have regarding weight gain as well as any questions that may assist you to decide whether to use Xanax.
Here are five inquiries to pose to your medical staff regarding Xanax weight gain:
- Does Xanax cause weight gain?
- Do my Xanax dosage and frequency have any bearing on how much I weigh?
- Does Xanax make weight gain worse when combined with other medications?
- How can I keep from putting on weight while on Xanax?
- Will I lose weight if I quit taking Xanax if I gain it while taking it?