Does valsartan cause weight gain
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Valsartan and Weight Gain: Analyzing the Evidence
Introduction to Valsartan and Weight Management
Valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), is commonly prescribed for hypertension. Given its widespread use, understanding its potential side effects, including impacts on body weight, is crucial. This article synthesizes research findings to determine whether valsartan causes weight gain.
Comparative Effects of Valsartan and Telmisartan on Weight Gain
Research comparing valsartan with another ARB, telmisartan, provides valuable insights. In a study involving rats on a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet, telmisartan, but not valsartan, was found to increase caloric expenditure and protect against weight gain and hepatic steatosis. Telmisartan-treated rats showed lower absolute food intake and reduced visceral fat accumulation compared to those treated with valsartan. Additionally, telmisartan significantly decreased adipocyte size and hepatic triglyceride levels, effects not observed with valsartan. This suggests that while telmisartan may have protective effects against weight gain, valsartan does not exhibit the same benefits.
Valsartan's Impact on Weight in Hypertensive Rats
Further studies have explored valsartan's effects on weight in hypertensive rats. One study compared valsartan with benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Both drugs effectively reduced systolic blood pressure, but only benazepril significantly suppressed normal weight gain. Valsartan-treated animals gained weight at a rate similar to controls, indicating that valsartan does not significantly impact weight gain. Another study confirmed these findings, showing that only the highest dose of valsartan had a significant effect on body weight gain, whereas benazepril consistently reduced weight gain across all doses.
Conclusion
The current body of research indicates that valsartan does not cause significant weight gain. While telmisartan and benazepril have shown protective effects against weight gain in various studies, valsartan-treated subjects generally gained weight at rates comparable to controls. Therefore, patients using valsartan for hypertension management are unlikely to experience weight gain as a side effect.
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