Praveen Soni Praveen Soni Asked 5 months ago

Does hydroxychloroquine cause weight gain?

My doctor prescribed hydroxychloroquine for my condition, and I've just started taking it. I'm conscious about maintaining my weight, and I'm wondering if this medication might affect it. Does hydroxychloroquine typically cause weight gain?

6

6 answers

Rohan Bhatia Rohan Bhatia Joined May 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

I just finished a 6-month course of HCQS and honestly, I didn't experience any significant weight gain. My rheumatologist told me that this drug is actually less likely to cause weight gain compared to steroids like Wysolone. Just keep an eye on your appetite and stay active.

Kavita Sharma Kavita Sharma Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

Haan, is dawaai se direct weight gain toh bahut kam dekha jata hai na. Actually, steroids se thoda bloating ho jata hai par HCQS se nahi. Phir bhi, agar thoda weight upar-neeche ho raha hai toh doctor se baat karke thyroid and sugar level check karwa lo.

Aditya Shinde Aditya Shinde Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Actually, it doesn't cause weight gain, yaar. My mom has been on it for a year now and her weight is perfectly stable. Sometimes the pain makes us less active, which might lead to gain, but the tablet itself isn't the culprit.

Powered by

Consult a dietary specialist

Sneha Roy Sneha Roy Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I totally get it, when we are already dealing with painful chronic conditions, the fear of gaining weight from meds is so stressful. But rest assured, hydroxychloroquine usually doesn't cause weight gain. If you are feeling bloated, it might be due to other meds or inflammation, so please talk to your doctor.

Varun Patel Varun Patel Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

Bro, my aunt is taking this for rheumatoid arthritis and she hasn't gained any weight at all. In fact, she feels more energetic now because her joint pain reduced, so she is walking more. Don't worry about it too much, it's not a steroid.

Related reads

All articles
Rohit Nair Rohit Nair Joined May 2026 5 months ago

HCQS is generally weight-neutral. If your doctor allows, try maintaining a routine of a 30-minute daily walk to keep your metabolic rate up and joints flexible. Staying active is the best way to manage any potential side effects of long-term medications.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.