Why Do You Gain Weight When Taking Oral Steroids?

I just found out I have a lung condition that will have to be treated with steroids. I have always been a thin person and I am afraid of the weight gain side effect. Does anyone know why you gain weight from taking steroids and if you can prevent weight gain? Thanks.

2 Responses to “Why Do You Gain Weight When Taking Oral Steroids?”

1. Nah Z says:

   November 10, 2009 at 5:18 am

   Yes, you will. You will swell, very likely in the face- which seems awful at first, until you remember the part about the drug you’re taking being for your own health.
   A reduction in the dose, or later, being able to stop the drugs will reduce the severity. The initial “omg swell’ will seem much worse than it will in the next month or two.
   Keep your eye on the prize. You’re taking it for a reason.
2. cryptoxm says:

   November 10, 2009 at 5:18 am

   Steroids may cause you to retain salt and fluids so that your weight increases. Weight gain caused by fluid retention will gradually decrease when you stop taking the medication. In the meantime, to minimize fluid retention:
   a. Follow a low salt diet, if cleared by your physician.
   1. Do not add salt to your food when cooking or eating.
   2. Avoid very salty foods such as pork, ham, bacon, tomato juice, salted nuts, bouillon, canned soups, cheese, salted crackers, snack foods, seasoned salt, soy or Worcestershire sauce, catsup, canned meats or fish, corned beef, sausage, peanut butter and foods labeled as having a high sodium content.
   Steroids will also cause redistribution of body fat to places that are undesirable, particularly the face, back of the neck, and abdomen.
   Good luck .. life is full of necessary evils … I wish you the best of health ….