Antihistamine weight gain?

[somuchbetterthanbefore]

Has anyone experienced weight gain and bloating taking antihistamines (specifically cetirizine) regularly?

Trying to work out possible causes for gaining and struggling to lose weight, as well as feeling uncomfortably bloated as the day progresses.

Other possible culprits are perimenopause and HRT, new food intolerances, and / or slowing metabolism (mid 40s).

Diet and exercise levels which would have worked before aren’t working now. Very frustrating.

I have. I have taken antihistamines daily for many years, all year round.

Histamine is an appetite suppressant, so when you block it's affects, you are hungrier.

Some are apparently worse than others - older type/sedating ones like chlorphenaramine are the worst and newer ones loratadine/cetirizine are meant to be better.

I have moved to using localised medications - so nasal sprays/ eye drops.

https://obesitymedicine.org/blog/antihistamines-and-weight-gain-obesity-medicine-association/

This was interesting to read about it

Thank you that’s really useful to know.