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Some drugs can make you put on weight as a side effect.

Drugs called corticosteroids can make you feel hungry and bloated. Both these effects may cause you to put on weight. Corticosteroids are given for many conditions, including arthritis.

Neuroleptics are drugs used to treat a mental illness called schizophrenia. These drugs can make you feel sleepy or lethargic. So you're less likely to use energy and more likely to put on weight.

Antidepressants are used to treat people who are depressed. Some of the older antidepressant drugs can make you put on weight. This is most likely to happen with a drug called amitriptyline (Elavil). People taking this drug often crave high-energy, sugary foods.

If you're taking drugs for epilepsy, especially drugs called valproate (valproic acid, Depakote) or carbemazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, Tegretol, Tegretol-XR), you may put on weight.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.