Can Xanax make you gain weight?

30 Sec Answer: Yes, Xanax can potentially make you gain weight if it is taken for an extended period of time.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Xanax, or alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by calming the brain and central nervous system. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety, there are some potential side effects that have been linked to its use. One such side effect is weight gain. In this article we will explore how Xanax can affect your body’s metabolism and lead to weight gain.

How Does Xanax Affect Weight?

Xanax affects the body’s metabolism by altering certain hormones, including cortisol and insulin. Cortisol is a stress hormone that triggers hunger, leading to overeating and potential weight gain. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels, but when it becomes unbalanced due to long-term use of Xanax, it can lead to excessive fat storage in the body.

Why Does Xanax Cause Weight Gain?

There are several reasons why Xanax may cause weight gain:

1. Appetite stimulation – As mentioned above, Xanax can stimulate the appetite which may lead to overeating and subsequent weight gain.
2. Increased cravings – Long-term use of Xanax can cause cravings for high-calorie foods which can contribute to weight gain over time.
3. Decreased activity level – Some people experience decreased energy levels while taking Xanax, leading them to become less active and burn fewer calories than normal.
4. Slowed metabolism – The hormones affected by Xanax can also slow down your body’s metabolic rate, meaning you don’t burn as many calories as you normally would.

5. Water retention – Finally, Xanax can also cause water retention which can lead to extra pounds on the scale even if your caloric intake hasn’t changed much from before you started taking the drug.

   What Are The Other Side Effects Of Taking Xanax?

   In addition to potentially causing weight gain, long-term use of Xanax has been linked to other side effects including:

6. Drowsiness – This is one of the most common side effects of taking Xanax and can be very dangerous if you drive or operate heavy machinery while under its influence.
7. Memory loss – Prolonged use of Xanax has been linked to memory loss and confusion in some individuals.
8. Addiction – It is possible to become addicted to Xanax with long-term use so it should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor who knows your medical history and individual needs.

9. Impaired coordination – Another side effect of taking this drug is impaired coordination which could lead to falls or accidents if not monitored closely by a healthcare professional.

   Who Is At Risk For Developing Weight Gain From Taking Xanax?

   People who are at risk for developing weight gain from taking Xanax include those who take the drug for an extended period of time (more than 6 months), those who take higher doses than prescribed by their doctor, those who suffer from depression or other mental health issues, and those with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease that could be worsened by weight gain from using the medication.

   How Can You Avoid Gaining Weight While Taking Xanax?

   If you need to take Xanax for anxiety or other medical reasons but want to avoid gaining excess weight, there are several things you can do:

10. Monitor your calorie intake – Pay attention to what you eat and try to maintain a healthy diet full of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil or avocado oil instead of processed foods high in sugar and saturated fat that could contribute to weight gain over time.
11. Increase physical activity – Regular exercise will help keep your metabolism up while taking this medication so aim for at least 30 minutes per day five days per week if possible—just make sure you check with your doctor first before starting any new workout routine!

12. Track your progress – Keep track of your bodyweight and measurements over time so you can catch any sudden increases early on and make changes accordingly if needed (such as increasing physical activity).

    Conclusion

    Weight gain is a potential side effect of taking Xanax due to its ability to alter hormones like cortisol and insulin in the body which can trigger hunger or slow down metabolic rate leading to increased fat storage over time. People who take higher doses for longer periods of time are more likely to develop this problem than others but luckily there are steps that can be taken in order to prevent excessive weight gain while still getting relief from symptoms associated with anxiety or panic disorders—namely monitoring caloric intake, increasing physical activity, and tracking progress regularly!