Is weight loss possible in patients treated with thiazolidinediones? Experience with a low-calorie diet

SUMMARY Background: Weight gain is a frequent side-effect of thiazolidinediones, possibly related to fluid retention and stimulation of pre-adipocyte differentiation. Methods: We report our experience with a low-calorie diet (800cal, sodium content 1500 mmol day−1) combined with behavior modification on eight patients treated with thiazolidinediones (six pioglitazone and two rosiglitazone). Results: All patients had reported previous weight gain following treatment with thiazolidinediones. All patients lost weight over 12 weeks in the program with their mean ± SD body weight falling from 270 ± 54 lbs (123 ± 25 kg) to 244 ± 61 lbs (111 ± 28 kg) (p