Does buspirone cause weight gain?

“I’ve been taking buspirone for anxiety for a few weeks, and I’ve noticed my clothes feel a bit tighter even though I haven’t changed my diet. Does buspirone cause weight gain, or could something else be going on?”

Daisy Oliveira
Registered Nurse CNO #13564387

Buspirone does not typically cause weight gain. In clinical use, meaningful changes in weight are uncommon, and some studies even suggest it may have neutral or small weight-lowering effects in specific situations. If weight changes happen, they tend to be mild.

What people may notice more often is a change in appetite early on, which usually settles as the body adjusts. Rarely, weight gain or weight loss can occur, but these effects are not considered common with buspirone. If you are gaining weight and are unsure why, it’s important to look for other causes too, like stress, sleep changes, thyroid problems, or other medicines. Read more about the common reasons for unexpected weight gain.

Practical tips for preventing weight gain include tracking weight weekly, focusing on balanced meals, and staying active. If you notice significant weight changes after stating buspirone, speak with your family doctor or the prescriber. Do not change the dose or stop the medication without medical guidance.

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