Does Buspar cause weight loss? (5 tips that might help)
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The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter. The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.
In this article, we will discuss whether Buspar causes weight loss. We will also shed light on some research studies and discuss other factors that could affect your body weight while taking Buspar. We will also discuss some management strategies for those who may experience this side effect.
Does Buspar cause weight loss?
Buspar may cause weight loss in some people. However, it is not a listed side effect of this medication, and not many cases have been reported (1,2). Buspar is an anti-anxiety medication that can be used along with other medications to manage both anxiety and depression.
Many such medications are linked to weight gain or loss. However, Buspar is considered a weight-neutral medication that does not typically lead to weight gain or loss.
However, people are different and can have different underlying factors affecting their health. If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss while taking Buspar and are concerned about it, please reach out to your doctor.
It is also important to discuss other potential factors contributing to your weight loss or rule out underlying health conditions that could affect your body weight.
What does research suggest?
There is limited research on Buspar-induced weight loss and this side effect is not commonly reported. Research studies on animal models indicate weight loss as a potential side effect of Buspar.
One research study on rats indicated that the use of Buspar can help manage blood pressure and promote weight loss in hypertensive rats (3). Another research study showed weight loss in the mouse following the treatment with buspirone and melatonin (4).
This indicates that Buspar can trigger weight loss in animal models. However, no such thing has been reported in research studies involving humans. One research study indicated that anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines and buspirone do not typically lead to weight gain or loss (5).
So, research does not show any strong link between buspirone and weight loss. However, some people may still lose weight while being treated with Buspar.
What factors can influence weight loss while taking Buspar?
Some factors that can influence weight loss while taking Buspar include:
Low-calorie diet/Malnutrition
If your body is not getting enough calories or essential nutrients, it can lead to weight loss. This might happen if you’re not eating a balanced diet or if Buspar is affecting your appetite.
Underlying health conditions
Conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues can impact weight. Additionally, an eating disorder such as anorexia could contribute to weight loss, and it’s crucial to consider these factors.
Use of other medications
Some medications, when used in combination with Buspar, may lead to weight loss. It’s essential to be aware of all medications you’re taking and their potential side effects.
Active lifestyle
Engaging in regular physical activity can contribute to weight loss. If your daily activity level exceeds the calories you consume, it may result in gradual weight reduction.
What to do if Buspar makes you lose weight?
If you’re losing weight while taking Buspar, please reach out to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will rule out other conditions that could be affecting your body weight or other lifestyle factors that could be at play. Buspar, as stated earlier, does not typically affect your body weight.
However, if you’re losing weight without having any underlying condition or any change in your usual diet or lifestyle, your doctor may try dose reduction to see how your body responds to it.
If you continue to lose weight on this med, your doctor will safely taper it off and switch you to another medication. Rapid weight loss is not a good sign and should be properly monitored.
Helpful tips to manage medication-induced weight loss
If you’re dealing with medication-induced weight loss, here are some tips that might help:
- Reach out to your doctor if you’re experiencing weight loss due to medication. They can adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
- If it’s challenging to eat solid foods, consider incorporating liquid calories into your diet. Smoothies, shakes, or nutrient-rich drinks can be helpful.
- While it’s okay to eat less, make sure the food you consume is nutritious. Include essential foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast. It kickstarts your metabolism and provides the energy needed for the day.
- Stay Active: Keep yourself active. Physical activity may stimulate your appetite, making it easier to maintain a healthy eating routine.
Our diet plays a huge role in our overall physical and mental well-being. As a pharmacist, I always recommend opting for a healthy diet and staying active. However, medication-induced weight loss or gain could be tricky to deal with.
It is important to note that Buspar is not typically one of those meds which significantly affect your body weight or appetite. So, if you feel that this medication is affecting your weight, it is important to discuss this with your prescribing physician.
References
- Wilson TK, Tripp J. Buspirone. 2023 Jan 17. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30285372. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531477
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION. Buspar (buspirone) tablets, for oral use. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/018731s051lbl.pdf
- Lee YJ, Kim HM, Jang YN, Han YM, Seo HS, Jung TW, Jeong JH, Lee HJ, Jung KO. Buspirone Induces Weight Loss and Normalization of Blood Pressure via the Stimulation of PPARδ Dependent Energy Producing Pathway in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. PPAR Res. 2023 Apr 30;2023:7550164. doi: 10.1155/2023/7550164. PMID: 37168052; PMCID: PMC10164918. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37168052/
- Kumar A, Kaur G, Rinwa P. Buspirone along with melatonin attenuates oxidative damage and anxiety-like behaviour in a mouse model of immobilization stress. Chin J Nat Med. 2014 Aug;12(8):582-9. doi: 10.1016/S1875-5364(14)60089-3. PMID: 25156283. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25156283/
- Dent R, Blackmore A, Peterson J, Habib R, Kay GP, Gervais A, Taylor V, Wells G. Changes in body weight and psychotropic drugs: a systematic synthesis of the literature. PLoS One. 2012;7(6):e36889. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036889. Epub 2012 Jun 15. PMID: 22719834; PMCID: PMC3376099. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3376099/