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What Causes Sudden Weight Gain While On Metoprolol And Atenolol?

Posted on Tue, 10 Oct 2017

Question: I was prescribed metoprolol er succinate to replace atenolol. I have gained so much weight since starting it. Now when I looked it up, rapid weight gain. Is shown as a side effect. My physician confirmed my bmi has increased a lot but did not switch the medication. What else can I ask him to prescribe? Clothes that fit 3 months ago no longer do.Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (40 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It is rare for Metoprolol to cause such weight gain.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
This is Dr Sameer, cardiologist.
Metoprolol causes increased triglyceride level but rarely causes such weight gain.
So you should see for other causes of weight gain.
Can you please let me know for what atenolol or Metoprolol was prescribed. Because it is now no longer first line drug for high bp(if you are taking for high bp).
Also try to decrease weight gain by diet management & exercise.
Thanks & take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (2 hours later)

I was prescribed atenolol 22 years ago while recovering from viral myocarditis-3 viruses attacked my heart. I weighed 115 and was extremely active. Never have had high blood pressure. Also have fibromyalgia, which gives me chemical sensitivities. Gave been working on diet & exercise with little success. HAVE mitral valve prolapse with occasional arrythmias.

Answered by Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You should continue Metoprolol

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome back.
So you are on Metoprolol because of mitral valve prolapse & arrhythmia.
Metoprolol is a very good medicine & extremely important for a patient having MVP & arrhythmia. It prevent further arrhythmia & prevent remodeling of heart. Atenolol is not approved for this case.
So you should continue Metoprolol & see for other causes of weight gain.
Thanks & take care

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana