Will I gain Weight with steroid shot?

janetfromhousto · 01-03-2005, 10:24 PM

I just had two kenalog shots (one in each thigh...), and I am horrified to read here that I may gain weight! I asked my orthopedic surgeon, who I know is a very good doctor, if there were any side effects and he told me there were none to be concerned about.

I am a fairly thin person (5'5", 122-124 lbs) and I watch my weight. What kind of weight gain can I expect?! How long will it last? Why does one gain weight with steriod shots and is there something I could take to counteract the effects? Also, I have a very mild case of acne, even at 37. Is that also a potential side effect?

*Thank you

Kimsue · 01-04-2005, 01:08 AM

I can understand your concern, but I'm sure you will be fine. I have had several cortisone shots (usually 40 mg of Kenalog) in knees, elbows, and shoulders throughout my 20 year battle with RA and have never gained weight from the shots. You do however gain weight when you take Prednisone orally (by mouth) for an extended period of time - maybe that's what you are thinking of.

janetfromhousto · 01-04-2005, 08:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimsue

I can understand your concern, but I'm sure you will be fine. I have had several cortisone shots (usually 40 mg of Kenalog) in knees, elbows, and shoulders throughout my 20 year battle with RA and have never gained weight from the shots. You do however gain weight when you take Prednisone orally (by mouth) for an extended period of time - maybe that's what you are thinking of.

janetfromhousto · 01-04-2005, 08:41 AM

Kim, No, it was on this board that I read a few posts about steroid shots making people gain weight....and gave them indentations where they were injected. Have you ever experienced that?

Thank you for making me feel a little better!

Kathie T. · 01-04-2005, 11:24 AM

I have been having cortizone shots since I was four and never gained anything from them. I have also been on prednisone for a week at a time about eight times in my life and again never gained weight. You gain weight when you are on high doses of prednisone for an extended period of time. Not from a one time cortizone shot.