I was prescribed propranolol to use when I have elevated anxiety, rather than using a benzodiazepine, during the initial start up with Lexapro. I have used propranolol in the past too, even if I wasn't using an SSRI. I am naturally very slim and haven't had a weight problem ever before. But I do notice that when I take propranolol, I get heavy thighs and also weight gain around my abdomen. It seems to be water weight, as it comes on really quickly and I don't increase what I eat, which is a healthy diet. I also attribute this medication to some eczema that I have on my upper chest. Again, never had this skin condition before and it seems to be more than a coincidence that it has started with this drug. It's a shame about these side effects, as it helps so much with anxiety. Just wondered if anyone else has this.
Does anyone else have weight gain and eczema with propranolol?
Question posted by hoffgrad on 14 June 2021
Last updated on 14 June 2021
Answers
Hey, hoffgrad!
Alpha's right about the weight gain although apparently it's fairly uncommon:
"Metabolic
Frequency not reported: Edema, weight gain"
The same goes for the rash:
"Frequency not reported: Exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, urticaria, skin rashes"
Have you talked to your doctor about it? I wonder if another beta-blocker might have less potential for these side effects.
WC
That is a great question. As a follow up, what is your dosage? I take 10mg 2x a day for anxiety and I’ve never had any weight gain. My wife takes 40 mg twice per day a day for migraine prevention and also has never gained weight. My understanding from the research I did prior to starting this medication was that weight gain was very possible, especially at higher doses, like 160 mg a day. We are all different, and throughout the years I have read many stories about people gaining weight while on propranolol. As with most medications it sounds like the side effect potential for most people increases as the dosage amount increases. This has been an excellent medication for my general anxiety. I hope this helps. Good luck to you!
Thank you so much for your comment. I am on a 40mg dose, and try to use it only once per day. I'm pretty sure that it has caused the water weight, as I'm quite sensitive to drugs. And it's useful to know that this is a possible side effect. What a shame because it really is fabulous for anxiety, without making me feel drugged.
It does sound like in your case the medication is indeed causing weight gain. You will have to work with your prescriber to determine if that side effect is worth the benefits you receive from taking the medication. It sounds like you may only need to be on it while you get comfortable with your dose of Lexapro. So hopefully it will all be good in the long run. I’ll be honest, it is so hard to find a good medication at the right dose for anxiety. I wish you the best!
Thank you. All the best to you, too.
Related topics
weight loss (obesity/overweight), anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, propranolol, eczema, weight, prescription
Further information
- Propranolol uses and safety info
- Propranolol prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Propranolol (detailed)
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