Klonopin and Weight Gain

Is there a connection between Klonopin and weight gain? In clinical studies, less than 1 percent of people taking Klonopin experienced weight gain. If you notice weight gain with Klonopin, try increasing the amount of exercise you get and eating heart-healthy foods. If these suggestions don't help, your healthcare provider can offer other recommendations or may switch you to a different medication altogether.

 

An Overview of Klonopin and Weight Gain

As with all medications, Klonopin® (clonazepam) may cause undesirable side effects. Weight gain may be one of these side effects. This data comes from clinical trials where Klonopin was extensively studied and its side effects were documented.
 
In clinical trials, both weight gain and weight loss were reported as possible side effects of Klonopin. However, neither of these side effects is among the most common Klonopin side effects. In fact, studies have shown that less than 1 percent of people taking Klonopin reported problems with weight gain or weight loss.
 

Klonopin and Weight Gain: Suggestions

If you are noticing bothersome weight gain while taking Klonopin, there are some things that you can do. Some suggestions include:
 
  • Getting regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
     
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet. This diet should include:
o Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
o Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
o Limited saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars. 
  • Limiting your intake of alcohol.
     
Also, if you are noticing weight gain while taking Klonopin, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can offer you other suggestions for dealing with any weight gain. He or she may also look for other causes of the weight gain, such as certain medical conditions. If the weight gain continues, he or she may also recommend other lifestyle changes or suggest a different medication for your seizures or panic disorder.
 
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;