Meena Prasad Meena Prasad Asked 6 months ago

Does benzodiazepines cause weight gain?

Prescribed benzodiazepines for my anxiety, and while they help, I'm trying to avoid any side effects, especially weight gain. Is weight gain a common side effect of benzodiazepines, and should I be concerned?

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7 answers

Karan Johar Karan Johar Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago
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Honestly, they make you so relaxed and sleepy that your activity level drops to zero. That, plus the late-night munchies I get after taking them, is a perfect recipe for gaining weight. It's hard to burn calories when you are sleeping like a baby!

Riya Sawant Riya Sawant Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Actually yaar, some people do experience weight gain on benzos because it slows down your metabolism and makes you super lazy. But it's not the case for everyone. You should check with your doc before changing any doses, don't stop them suddenly.

Sunita Nair Sunita Nair Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago

I noticed some weight gain while on these meds, but since I have thyroid issues, I made sure to get my thyroid levels tested first. It's important to rule out hormonal changes with regular blood tests while consulting your doctor.

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Deepak Mathew Deepak Mathew Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Yes, some patients notice weight changes because these medications relax the central nervous system, which can increase appetite or reduce daily activity. It's a common side effect but manageable. Just don't stop taking them cold turkey as withdrawal can be very tough; talk to your doctor.

Meena Agarwal Meena Agarwal Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Medications that affect the brain should never be self-managed or changed without professional advice. If you are experiencing sudden weight gain or feel highly sluggish, please get it checked by your psychiatrist immediately for your safety.

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Aditya Rao Aditya Rao Joined May 2026 5 months ago

They can make you feel sluggish, which makes working out harder. If your doctor allows it, try to maintain a light routine like a brisk 30-minute walk daily and track your food intake. Keeping active helps offset the metabolic slowdown from the medication.

Sanjay Kapoor Sanjay Kapoor Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago

I panicked so much when I gained 3 kgs in the first month of taking them! But my doctor reassured me it was just water retention and minor appetite changes. Once my body adjusted and I controlled my cravings, my weight went back to normal, so don't worry.

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