Does Dicyclomine cause weight gain? 

Does Dicyclomine cause weight gain? 

Dicyclomine is not associated with weight gain. The drug, however, can relieve symptoms related to your Irritable bowel syndrome which may make you eat more comfortably (1,2). This may make you gain a little amount of it. Dicyclomine itself does not affect your body’s metabolism. 

It does not interfere with either your fat-burning or fat-storing processes. However, there may be involvement of other factors as well that may contribute to your weight gain. If that’s the case, talk to your healthcare provider. 

Only your doctor can determine the exact cause of your weight gain if it’s significant. No matter what medication you’re on right now, if you have a poor lifestyle, you will gain weight. Make sure you eat good food and have a good exercise regimen to help strengthen your body and mind. 

What side effects are common with Dicyclomine?

Dicyclomine, although it may not cause weight gain, is associated with some side effects. These include: (3)

Common side effects of Dicyclomine may include

  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Upset stomach or abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite

Rare side effects of Dicyclomine, although less common, may include:

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or swelling)
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Hallucinations or delirium
  • Decreased sweating
  • Fever
  • Unusual fatigue or weakness

These side effects may vary from person to person, and not everyone experiences the above-listed side effects. However, if you start to experience any rare or serious side effects, please report them to your healthcare provider. 

What to do if you are gaining weight while taking Dicyclomine?

If you are experiencing weight gain while taking Dicyclomine, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. They can evaluate your situation and determine if the weight gain is directly related to the medication or if there are other factors involved.

In some cases, weight gain may be a side effect of Dicyclomine, but it can also be influenced by other factors such as diet, lifestyle, or underlying medical conditions. 

Your doctor may suggest adjusting the dosage or exploring alternative treatment options if they believe Dicyclomine is contributing to weight gain. They may also provide recommendations for maintaining a healthy weight through dietary and lifestyle changes.

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice and communicate any concerns or changes you notice in your weight during your treatment with Dicyclomine.

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References

1.-

Page JG, Dirnberger GM. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with Bentyl (dicyclomine hydrochloride). J Clin Gastroenterol. 1981 Jun;3(2):153-6. doi: 10.1097/00004836-198106000-00009. PMID: 7016973. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7016973/

2.-

Reina J, Smith JW. Medical treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2005 May;18(2):102-8. doi: 10.1055/s-2005-870891. PMID: 20011349; PMCID: PMC2780138. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2780138/

3.-

LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012–. Dicyclomine. 2017 Jul 7. PMID: 31644199. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548892