Does Amitiza cause weight gain? 

Does Amitiza cause weight gain? 

No, Amitiza is not associated with weight gain as the drug does not affect your body’s metabolic processes. However, it can cause weight gain in some rare cases. Very few people have reported this side effect, but even they did not gain a significant amount of weight. 

Several studies have indicated that Amitiza may help you eat more comfortably as it begins to treat your symptoms associated with constipation and Irritable bowel syndrome (1). This may make you gain a few pounds. 

However, this is considered a good type of weight gain as these gastrointestinal complications may curb your appetite and make food undesirable for you because of the pain it causes you. This can make people lose weight. 

When they start to respond well to Amitiza, the drug may also help to regulate their appetite. However, if you think you’re unusually gaining weight on Amitiza, immediately reach out to your healthcare provider. Only your healthcare provider can guide you regarding the further use of Amitiza. 

What are the commonly expected side effects of Amitiza?

Amitiza, although it does not cause weight gain, is associated with some side effects. These include (2):

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea
  • Headache
  • Stomach pain
  • Abdominal bloating or discomfort
  • Gas
  • Fatigue
  • Decreased appetite

Amitiza may not suit everyone and a small number of people could be allergic to this medication. It is also important to not combine Amitiza with anything it is not compatible with and alcoholic beverages. Make sure you properly monitor your side effects and report them to your healthcare provider. 

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References

1.-

Li F, Fu T, Tong WD, Liu BH, Li CX, Gao Y, Wu JS, Wang XF, Zhang AP. Lubiprostone Is Effective in the Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Mayo Clin Proc. 2016 Apr;91(4):456-68. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2016.01.015. PMID: 27046523. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27046523/

2.-

National Library of Medicine (US). Lubiprostone. Bethesda (MD): U.S. National Library of Medicine; 2021 Mar 15 [updated 2021 Mar 15; cited 2023 May 4]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607034.html