Toprol and Weight Gain

There are many side effects that may occur with Toprol-XL, and weight gain of a gradual nature appears to be among the least common of these. In clinical trials of Toprol-XL, gradual weight gain was reported by less than 1 percent of patients taking the drug. If you experience rapid weight gain with Toprol-XL, let your healthcare provider know. A rapid, unexplained gain in weight with Toprol-XL could be a sign of heart failure.

 

Toprol-XL and Weight Gain: An Overview

There are a number of possible side effects with Toprol-XL® (metoprolol succinate). Gradual weight gain appears to be one that is reported very rarely (less than 1 percent of people). This information comes from clinical trials where Toprol-XL was extensively studied and side effects were documented. Given how infrequently weight gain with Toprol-XL was reported in these clinical trials, it is difficult to say whether it is actually caused by the medicine, other factors, or a combination of these. Rapid weight gain is also a reported side effect with all beta blockers, including Toprol-XL (see below).
 

Rapid Weight Gain With Toprol-XL

An important point concerning Toprol-XL and weight gain is that all beta blockers (including Toprol-XL) may worsen congestive heart failure or, in some cases, even cause heart failure. One of the main symptoms of heart failure is unexplained weight gain. In fact, people with symptoms of congestive heart failure can often have rapid weight gain over a couple of days. This weight gain is often combined with other symptoms, such as a cough and/or swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs. Make sure to contact your healthcare provider if you notice unexplained weight gain or swelling.
 

Toprol-XL and Weight Gain: Suggestions

If you are noticing gradual weight gain while taking Toprol-XL, there are some things that you can do.
 Some suggestions include:
 
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet, including:
o Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
o Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
o Limited amounts of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
  • Participating in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
     
  • Limiting your intake of alcohol.
     
Also, if you notice weight gain with Toprol, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can give you other suggestions for dealing with any weight gain you may experience. If the weight gain continues, he or she may also recommend other lifestyle choices or switching to another medicine.
 
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;