Neurontin and Weight Gain

Neurontin is a prescribed medication which is approved to take care of certain epileptic seizures. It is also approved to take care of Postherpetic Neuralgia which is considered to be a type of nerve pain that follows a shingles infection. Weight gain is one of the possible side-effects of Neurontin. This information is available from clinical trials where the drug was studied extensively and the side-effects were known.

Many side-effects are likely to occur with Neurontin, and weight gain is one of the side-effect which has been reported. It is more often seen in children than in adults and can often be conflicted by exercising regularly and by eating healthy foods. However, if you are experiencing a rapid weight gain with Neurontin, you should discuss about this to your healthcare provider, as it may be indicating a sign of serious medical condition.

In U.S before medications are approved, they must undergo several clinical studies in which side-effects of these medications are carefully documented. Studies have shown that up to 3.4% of children taking Neurontin for the purpose of controlling seizures experienced weight gain as compared to 0.8% of same group of children not taking the drug. However, weight gain in children is normally not unhealthy or unusual.

It is also a possible side-effect in adults though it is less common in them. In adults, up to 2.9% of people taking Neurontin experienced weight gain as compared to just 1.6% of adults not taking it.

Suggestions for Neurontin and weight gain:

If you notice bothersome or unexplained weight gain when you are taking Neurontin, there are few things that can be done by you for help. Some of the suggestions include:

Eat a healthy diet which includes:

Lots of vegetables, fruits, grains and low-fat or fat-free milk and other milk products.
Lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, beans and nuts.
Limited amount of Tran’s fats, saturated fats, sodium, cholesterol and added sugars.

• Engaging in physical activity for at least 30mins every day and for most of the days in a week.
• Off-putting intake of alcohol.

If you are gaining weight rapidly, it may be due to heart failure and fluid retention which are considered to be the possible side-effects of Neurontin. You should consult your healthcare provider if you observe rapid weight gain as this can be a sign of CHF i.e. congestive heart failure. He/she can suggest appropriate ways to deal with this problem.

If you continually gain weight, he/she may also recommend you to switch over to another medication