Weight gain: healthy strategies, meds that cause it, and when to get help

Gaining weight on purpose can be as tricky as losing it. Whether you need to add a few pounds after illness, build muscle, or are worried about unwanted weight gain from medications, this page gives clear, practical steps you can use now.

First, check causes. Common reasons for unwanted weight gain include certain medicines, hormones, fluid retention, slowing metabolism, and eating patterns. Drugs linked to weight gain include some antidepressants, antipsychotics, corticosteroids, and certain diabetes drugs. If you take meds and notice steady weight change, ask your clinician to review options—sometimes a simple switch or dose change helps.

Safe ways to gain weight

Focus on quality calories. Add nutrient-dense, higher-calorie foods: nuts, nut butters, whole-fat dairy, avocados, olive oil, fatty fish, and smoothies made with protein and oats. Eat more often—three meals plus two or three snacks daily. Prioritize protein at each meal to build muscle: eggs, dairy, lean meats, legumes, and protein shakes work well.

Strength training matters. Lift weights two to four times a week to turn extra calories into muscle, not fat. Work with a trainer or follow a simple program: compound moves like squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows give the fastest results. Rest and sleep are part of the plan—muscle grows during recovery.

When appetite is low, small tricks help: drink smoothies between meals, add calorie-rich toppings, and avoid filling up on low-calorie soups. If swallowing or chewing is hard after illness, softer high-calorie foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes with butter, or cottage cheese are helpful.

Medications and medical options

For medical weight loss or gain, doctors may suggest appetite stimulants or treat underlying conditions. Drugs like megestrol acetate or dronabinol have been used to stimulate appetite in cancer or HIV-related weight loss. Corticosteroids can cause weight gain as a side effect. Antidepressants differ: bupropion (Wellbutrin) is less likely to cause gain and may suppress appetite, while others can increase weight. Always discuss risks and benefits with a prescriber.

Beware of buying prescription drugs online without a valid prescription. Use licensed pharmacies and ask about patient assistance programs if cost is a barrier. Our site has guides on medications and safe online buying practices to help you choose wisely.

See a doctor if weight gain is sudden, unexplained, or comes with swelling, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue. Those signs can point to fluid retention, heart or kidney issues, or hormonal problems that need prompt care. For gradual, planned weight gain, set targets, track progress, and adjust calories and training every few weeks.

Want specific reads? Check our guides on antidepressants, steroids, and nutrition. Pick tips that match your situation and talk to a clinician before trying medications or major diet changes.

If you want a plan, aim for 300–500 extra calories daily, add two protein-rich snacks, and do 30–45 minutes of resistance training three times weekly. Reassess every two weeks and adjust food or workouts based on scale and how you feel.