I'm just beginning this journey and am a little scared. As of right now, I am on 5 meds, 3 of which are an every day thing. I was wondering if anyone knows if any of these will effect my weight...
Prednisone (as needed)
Flexeril
Metformin
Propranolol
Vicodin (as needed)
The only one with which I'm familiar is Metformin because I take it for my diabetes. As a diabetes drug, it is the only one that does not tend to have a negative effect on weight loss.
Flexeril is a muscle relaxant. I've never heard of it being prescribed for OA. It's not available up here.
Prednisone can lead to weight gain due to increased appetite and fluid retention.
Propranolol is a beta-blocker and can make you sluggish, leading to weight gain. Usued for treating high BP.
Metformin is for insulin resistance (Diabetes) and has no bad effect on weight.
Which drugs did your doctor prescribe specifically for OA? Vicodin for pain?
I'm on Flexeril for osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia at bedtime when needed. I don't feel that it has hindered any weight loss. I'm also on Relafen & Prozac which I do feel has hindered the weight loss.
For the OA & slipped discs, I was given the Prednisone to help with the swelling... Vicodin for the pain... Flexeril to relax the muscles in my neck and keep the slipped discs from pinching my nerves and spine.... and then the Propranolol for my high blood pressure. The Metformin is for PCOS.
Please try to make a real effort with your diet to improve your health.. and do it as healthily as you can..
Forget about the big picture.. concentrate on each day.. that is where we fight the battle, the little choices that we make with regards to food during the course of a day.
And if you fall off the wagon, and you will from time to time, well just pick yourself up and get on with it. Try to learn about good nutrition as much as you can..
If I can do this, you can too, the very best, Jenny
My first day is almost over and I'm very proud of myself. I've done really good today. No cheating on the diet and I've completed my whole fitness routine! Yay! I'm tired though... whooped really!
It is very tough to lose weight on long-term or high dose prednisone (though usually not impossible). Prednisone, especially at high doses and/or long term use can lower metabolism, increase insulin resistance/blood sugar, increase appetite, and increase fluid retention). Often low carb works better than other food plans (this is true for insulin resistant folks also).
However, a short course and/or low dose prednisone may not have any noticeable effect. If you're having problems talk to your doctor (and remember that you have to follow the prescription directions carefully, as it can be dangerous to stop abruptly).
OsteoArthritis & the meds...
