Weight loss can occur as a side effect of certain medications. While in some contexts, this might be a desired effect (as in the use of some weight loss medications), in others it can be unintended and potentially problematic. Here’s a list of medication categories and examples where weight loss might be a side effect:
- Stimulants: Used primarily for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, these drugs can suppress appetite.
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- Dexamphetamine (Dexedrine)
- Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, especially SSRIs and SNRIs, can cause weight loss, particularly in the early stages of treatment.
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Venlafaxine (Effexor)
- Antidiabetic Medications: Some medications used to manage diabetes, particularly those in the GLP-1 agonist class, can lead to weight loss.
- Exenatide (Byetta)
- Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- Metformin (Glucophage) – while not primarily used for weight loss, can have this effect in some patients.
- Chemotherapy Drugs: Used in the treatment of cancer, these drugs can cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite leading to weight loss.
- Certain Anticonvulsants: Some drugs used for seizure control can have appetite-suppressing effects.
- Topiramate (Topamax)
- Thyroid Medications: Over-replacement of thyroid hormones can lead to weight loss.
- Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Eutroxsig)
- Anti-HIV Drugs: Some medications for the treatment of HIV/AIDS can cause nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
- Efavirenz (Sustiva)
- Lopinavir/Ritonavir (Kaletra)
- Laxatives and Diuretics: Overuse can lead to weight loss, but this is not a healthy or sustainable method and can be dangerous.