Does metoprolol cause weight gain
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Metoprolol and Weight Gain: Analyzing the Evidence
Introduction to Metoprolol and Weight Gain Concerns
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker commonly prescribed for hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, has been scrutinized for its potential side effects, including weight gain. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a clear understanding of whether metoprolol contributes to weight gain.
Evidence from the GEMINI Trial: Metoprolol and Weight Gain in Diabetic Patients
The Glycemic Effect in Diabetes Mellitus: Carvedilol-Metoprolol Comparison in Hypertensives (GEMINI) trial provides significant insights into the effects of metoprolol on body weight. This study specifically evaluated patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Results indicated that patients treated with metoprolol tartrate experienced a significant mean weight gain of 1.19 kg over five months, whereas those treated with carvedilol did not show a significant weight change . The weight gain was particularly pronounced in patients with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 kg/m² .
Metoprolol in Hypothalamic Obesity: Tesomet Trial Findings
Another study investigated the combination of tesofensine and metoprolol (Tesomet) in patients with hypothalamic obesity. While the primary focus was on the efficacy and safety of Tesomet, the study found that the combination did not lead to significant weight gain. Instead, Tesomet resulted in a mean weight reduction of 6.3% compared to placebo, suggesting that metoprolol, when combined with tesofensine, does not necessarily promote weight gain .
Comparison with Weight Reduction Strategies in Hypertensive Patients
A randomized controlled trial compared the effects of metoprolol with weight reduction strategies in young overweight patients with mild hypertension. The study found that while weight reduction led to significant decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, metoprolol did not produce the same beneficial effects on plasma lipids and was associated with adverse changes in cholesterol levels . This suggests that lifestyle modifications might be more effective for weight management in hypertensive patients compared to metoprolol.
Metoprolol and Cachexia in Chronic Heart Failure Patients
Interestingly, metoprolol has been shown to have a different effect in patients with chronic heart failure and cachexia. A study demonstrated that metoprolol therapy was associated with weight gain and a decrease in plasma cytokine levels, which are beneficial for reversing cachexia . This indicates that the impact of metoprolol on body weight may vary depending on the underlying health condition of the patient.
Conclusion
The evidence suggests that metoprolol can lead to weight gain, particularly in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. However, its effects may differ based on the patient's health condition and the presence of other treatments. While metoprolol may contribute to weight gain in some populations, it can also aid in weight gain in patients suffering from cachexia due to chronic heart failure. Therefore, the decision to use metoprolol should be carefully considered by healthcare providers, taking into account the individual patient's health profile and potential risks.
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