Does Flovent cause weight gain? (+3 tips)

In this article, we will discuss whether Flovent causes weight gain. We will also discuss some management tips to control weight gain due to Flovent.

Does Flovent cause weight gain?

Yes, Flovent may cause weight gain. However, studies suggest that weight gain is more common in females taking higher doses of Flovent (1). In addition, Flovent may cause adrenal insufficiency and increased appetite if used for a prolonged time (2, 3).

Flovent is considered a safe medication with minimal side effects. However, in some individuals, concomitant use of Flovent with other medications may cause Cushing’s Syndrome. Adrenal insufficiency and Cushing’s Syndrome are known to cause weight gain.

Flovent belongs to the class of medication known as corticosteroids. It helps to reduce the symptoms of asthma attacks by keeping the airways open and reducing lung inflammation. However, it may not treat an asthmatic attack that has already begun.

What does research suggest?

In one of the clinical studies, a follow-up of patients (n=180) indicated that women were more likely to gain weight within one year, especially if they were taking higher doses of Flovent. On the other hand, men were less likely to gain weight even at higher doses (1).

In one of the case reports, a 55-year-old woman presented with extreme fatigue and weight gain. She was taking Flovent as the only prescribed medication. The low level of morning cortisol was diagnosed as adrenal insufficiency. The cortisol levels returned to normal once Flovent was discontinued (2).

In another study, children (n=11) of age 10 experienced weight gain and an increase in body mass index (BMI) after 18 months of treatment with Flovent. However, the cortisol levels and growth rates were normal (4).

In one of the clinical studies, concomitant administration of Ritonavir and Flovent caused Cushing’s syndrome, weight gain and increased risk of adrenal crises in 57% (n=7) of the asthmatic patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS (3).

What other factors may cause weight gain while taking Flovent?

Several factors may contribute to weight gain if you are also taking Flovent as prescribed by your doctor. Firstly, your lifestyle and eating habits can play a significant role in gaining weight while taking Flovent.

Diet and eating habits

If you eat a high-calorie diet, low-nutrition food, fried items, and do not drink plenty of water then it may exacerbate weight gain. Some people may be genetically predisposed to gain weight even after eating a balanced diet while taking Flovent.

Sleeping pattern

Insufficient sleep and disturbed sleeping patterns are known to increase the level of ghrelin and lower the level of leptin. The hormone ghrelin increases the appetite while leptin may give you a feeling of being less full even after eating. This may cause overeating and weight gain.

Fluid retention

As a rare side effect, Flovent may cause peripheral fluid retention and facial-angio oedema. This may contribute to weight gain, however, such an effect is reversible. You should consult your doctor to identify the degree of oedema and how to drain it out of your body (5).

Lack of exercise

Some asthmatic people avoid strenuous physical activities because of the fear of exercise-induced asthma attacks. Lack of physical activity and binge eating may cause weight gain in these individuals.

Drug interaction

The concomitant administration of Flovent with other drugs, such as Ritonavir (protease inhibitor used in the treatment of HOV/AIDS) may cause weight gain due to changes in cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (3).

Stress-induced eating

In some individuals, stress and anxiety may cause recurrent episodes of binge eating. In this disorder, the person often eats excessive food and has lesser control over eating habits, leading to weight gain (6).

How to control Flovent-induced weight gain?

If you suspect that Flovent is making you gain weight, you should immediately consider taking the following steps:

Consult your doctor

You should talk to your doctor and inform him about your weight gain or other associated symptoms. Your doctor will help you identify the reason for weight gain and suggest some lifestyle modifications to help control further weight gain.

If your doctor identifies that your weight gain is due to Flovent, he might consider changing your drug or adjusting the dose. If dose adjustment proves effective for asthma and weight gain, your doctor may recommend you continue taking Flovent.

Eating habits

You should take a healthy and balanced diet to prevent weight gain while taking Flovent. Avoid fried items, soft drinks, junk food, and lower carbohydrate intake. Opt for fruits, vegetables, and proteins to avoid weight gain.

Physical activity

Although patients with asthma often have a fear of asthmatic attacks during strenuous exercise, you may go on walks, swim, or indulge in light-weight exercises to lose some weight.

Alternative medication

Your doctor may prescribe alternative medication for your asthma problem if you are gaining weight due to Flovent.

Your doctor may also prescribe combination medication for the treatment of asthma. For example, Pulmicort (budesonide) and albuterol are often prescribed together to treat inflammation and keep the airway open.

In my experience as a pharmacist, weight changes are common with the use of Flovent and other steroids. While some patients may gain weight, others lose weight due to prolonged use of Flovent. However, such changes can be managed easily.

I would suggest you adopt good eating habits and exercise regularly to control your weight. If you think you are gaining weight because of Flovent, consult your doctor to discuss good alternatives.

References