Name of the Condition

• Drug-induced obesity
• Technical term: Pharmacological iatrogenic obesity

Summary

Drug-induced obesity is a condition where weight gain and obesity result from the side effects of certain medications. These drugs can alter metabolism, appetite, and energy usage, leading to excessive weight gain.

Causes

Drug-induced obesity is primarily caused by medications that affect metabolic and endocrine systems. Common culprits include:

• Antipsychotics
• Antidepressants
• Corticosteroids
• Some antihyperglycemic agents

Risk Factors

• Long-term medication usage, especially those identified as causing weight gain.
• Lack of regular physical activity.
• Genetic predispositions to weight gain.
• Pre-existing metabolic disorders, such as diabetes or hypothyroidism.

Symptoms

• Unexplained weight gain.
• Increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen.
• Reduced physical endurance or fitness.
• Potential exacerbation of comorbid conditions, such as hypertension or diabetes.

Diagnosis

• Evaluation of patient history, including medication usage.
• Physical examination to assess weight and body mass index (BMI).
• Review of medical records for correlation between medication start date and weight changes.

Treatment Options

• Modification of the medication regimen under a doctor's supervision, possibly switching to alternative drugs with less impact on weight.
• Lifestyle interventions, including a healthy diet and regular exercise.
• Psychological support or counseling to assist with lifestyle changes.
• In some cases, medical weight management or bariatric surgery might be considered.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis can vary; some patients successfully manage weight with medication alterations and lifestyle changes.
• Regular monitoring of weight and health parameters is essential.
• Continuous follow-up with healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Complications

• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Worsening of existing metabolic conditions like diabetes.
• Decreased quality of life due to mobility issues and psychological impact.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in regular physical activity tailored to individual capabilities.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods and low in processed sugars.
• Educate patients on possible side effects of medications that may lead to weight gain.
• Frequent consultations with healthcare professionals to consider the risk-benefit ratio of current medications.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Rapid or unexplained weight gain after starting a new medication.
• Difficulty managing weight with standard lifestyle modifications.
• Signs of complications, such as shortness of breath, severe fatigue, or increased blood pressure levels.

Additional Resources

• Obesity Action Coalition: www.obesityaction.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: www.niddk.nih.gov
• The Obesity Society: www.obesity.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate recording of the specific drugs implicated in the patient's obesity to distinguish from other obesity types.
• Verify that the obesity is explicitly documented as drug-induced in the medical records to avoid errors.
• Consistently use the ICD code E66.1 in documentation to prevent misclassification of drug-induced conditions.