Due to ongoing back issues, my doctor has once again prescribed Meloxicam (also known as Mobic), an anti-inflammatory medication. Historically, this medication has caused me to gain weight.
I’m curious about the mechanism behind this weight gain and how I can prevent losing the progress I’ve made. Is the weight gain primarily due to water retention, or does it affect calorie burning efficiency? Should I consider further reducing calorie intake to manage it? Additionally, if it’s related to water retention, should I focus on reducing sodium intake (which seems like a good idea regardless)?
I’m also interested in hearing about any other tips, tricks, or strategies that others have found effective in managing weight gain caused by medications like Meloxicam.
There are several reasons why medications can lead to weight gain. One reason is water retention, as you mentioned. To mitigate this, reducing sodium intake and increasing water consumption are beneficial steps.
Another factor is increased appetite induced by certain drugs, which is quite common. In response, consuming more fats and proteins, or opting for smaller, more frequent meals, can help manage this effect. Additionally, staying hydrated is important.
Lastly, some medications can cause metabolic changes that may potentially decrease basal metabolic rate (BMR), although the extent of this effect is uncertain and would require medical consultation for clarity.
The usage of meloxicam is linked to a wide range of physical problems. Among these signs is an increase in weight. Many of the physical side effects of meloxicam use, such as stomach problems like gas, diarrhea, heartburn, bloating, constipation, or indigestion, can be managed without a prescription.
Meloxicam can cause fluid retention, which might lead to temporary weight gain. This is more likely to be observed in patients with existing cardiovascular or renal issues.