Tocilizumab and weight gain

[LizMitchell]

One of the common side effects of Tocilizumab is listed in the product information as being weight gain. I am interested to know if anyone on this forum who is either taking TCZ for PMR/GCA, or has done in the past, found this to be the case?

[LizMitchell]

Thank you so much for your response, that is really interesting! I know that we all respond differently to medication, but I am happy to hear that TCZ didn't cause you this particular problem!

Take care and I wish you all the best for the future.

Regards Elizabeth

[SheffieldJane]

Without knowing that weight gain was a listed side effect, I feel as if I have gained weight. I don’t weigh myself because it depresses me but my clothes feel tighter. Disappointing.

[LizMitchell]

Possibly??

[LizMitchell]

How long had you been taking Tocilizumab before your weight gain?

Weight gain is never welcome and is even more disappointing when it is out of your control!

[Chrisellie]

No weight gain at all, nor with prednisolone .

But did have a bloated tummy.

[LizMitchell in reply to Chrisellie]

That's very kind interesting, thank you!

[FRnina]

No weight gain with Tocilizumab since taking it for this last year. But was pretty careful from the onset of PMR/GCA with low carb intake throughout (3.5 years). Not always easy with a sweet tooth!

[LizMitchell in reply to FRnina]

That's good to hear! Like you, I virtually cut out carbs in my diet and I consume lots of anti-inflammatory foods as possible. I walk every day, at least 2 to 3 miles which helps mind and body!

[Rugger]

Like Chrisellie, I have gained no weight in 7 months on Tocilizumab or prednisolone for 4 years. I lost weight, possibly due to the inflammation of undiagnosed GCA-LVV, but on TCZ, I've not re-gained any weight. I eat a reasonably low carb diet without being obsessive.

[LizMitchell in reply to Rugger]

That is really encouraging, thank you.