Weight gain is making me miserable - but which drug is it?

[Andysbird]

I’m 65, have always been slim and pretty healthy. Everything has fallen apart in the last six months. I’m now on 10mg of Bisoprolol, 50mg of Losartan and 5mg of Amlodipine a day! I’m piling on weight and my legs are swelling, both of which are making me very miserable. I guess it’s better than being dead but does anyone have a similar experience or can they suggest how I approach my doctor? I don’t know which drug is causing the weight gain or fluid retention, or whether it’s the cocktail of drugs which is causing it. I also have shocking headaches and leg pain. I’d like to go back to the doctor and discuss in an informed way. So if anyone can point me in the right direction, I’d be very grateful.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! Sorry to hear about your troubles. Dealing with the leg swelling first. Amlodipine is what is known as a calcium channel inhibitor. These drugs are well known for causing ankle swelling. You need to speak to your GP about this as he may change the medication or add a diuretic. CCIs help with both lowering BP and angina.

As regards general weight gain you make have to look at reducing your daily calorific intake. Good luck!

[Andysbird in reply to MichaelJH]

I’ve done all of those things! Each of the packages says weight gain is a possible side effect. And I have also reduced calorie intake eg not drinking, cutting out carbs. The weight gain appears to be mostly water retention. No one on this site appears to be on 10mg of Bisoprolol. It’s the maximum dose so I think it might be the culprit. I would like to hear from anyone on similar doses and any problems they have.

[jimmyq]

Read the leaflets that come with the drugs. They may tell you which one is causing it. Go and see your doctor anyway, about the headaches and leg pain. Don't think that you are unduly bothering them: You need looking after, by yourself and health professionals.