Table of contents

• “Diet IV Therapy” as a Weight Management Approach
• Prescription "Diet Pills" for Weight Management
• Best Clinics in Korea for Medication Weight Gain
• Seeking Weight Management Solutions in South Korea: A Medical Tourist Perspective
• Patient Experiences and Clinical Perspectives
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

This guide explores solutions for individuals experiencing weight gain as a side effect of prescription medications. We examine the reasons behind medication-induced weight gain, introduce key terms such as "iatrogenic obesity" and "drug weight gain," and compare two popular weight management options: "Diet IV therapy" and prescription "Diet Pills." The article explains each procedure, details the patient process in South Korea for medical tourists, summarizes related costs, and discusses patient and clinical experiences internationally. Evidence-based practices and the importance of medical consultation are emphasized throughout. Prescription weight loss medications show proven results—especially in addressing medication-induced weight gain—whereas "Diet IV therapy" lacks strong scientific support and presents potential risks. South Korea offers competitive pricing on certain treatments, but patients should thoroughly understand all related expenses and the medical process.

Medication-induced weight gain is a widespread yet often overlooked issue, impacting many who take prescription drugs for various health conditions. This section clarifies what it is, how it happens, and which medications are likely to cause it.

What is Medication-Induced Weight Gain?

Medication-induced weight gain is the unintended increase in body weight that some people experience after starting certain prescription medications. This side effect is significant—not just for personal health, but from a public health perspective—and can mean gaining several pounds or even over 10% of one’s body weight. Patients often use the term "drug weight gain," while medical literature may refer to it as "iatrogenic obesity." It’s estimated that 10–15% of weight gain cases result from medication use, highlighting how common this issue is. Many patients may not connect sudden weight changes with their prescriptions, which can lead to misdiagnosis or emotional distress.

How Medications Cause Weight Gain: Mechanisms

Several mechanisms explain how medications can increase weight:

• Appetite stimulation: Some drugs make people feel hungrier, leading to higher food intake.
• Fat storage stimulation: Others affect the way the body manages glucose, resulting in greater fat accumulation, especially in the midsection.
• Metabolic slowdown: Medications can reduce metabolic rate, so fewer calories are burned at rest.
• Fluid retention: Many drugs cause the body to hold onto more water, increasing weight.
• Exercise impairment: Certain medications, such as opioids, can lower exercise tolerance, making it harder to burn calories effectively.

The combined impact of multiple drugs (polypharmacy) can complicate tracking causes and finding solutions, making careful management and communication between patients and doctors essential.

Common Medications Associated with Weight Gain

Numerous medication classes are linked to weight gain:

• Antidepressants, Anti-anxiety, and Mood Stabilizers: SSRIs like Paxil, Zoloft, Celexa, Prozac, Sertraline, and Paroxetine, as well as older antidepressants, MAOIs, benzodiazepines, and lithium.
• Antipsychotics: Olanzapine, Clozapine, Risperidone, Quetiapine, Aripiprazole, Haloperidol, with Olanzapine and Clozapine carrying the greatest risk.
• Diabetes Medications: Insulin, Sulfonylureas, Thiazolidinediones, Nateglinide, and Repaglinide.
• Steroid Hormones: Corticosteroids, Medroxyprogesterone, progestins, and some contraceptives; certain chemotherapy drugs like Tamoxifen and Arimidex.
• Anticonvulsants, Anti-migraine, and Neuropathic Pain Drugs: Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Valproic acid, Carbamazepine, Divalproex.
• Anti-hypertensive Medications: Beta-blockers, Alpha-blockers, and Calcium channel blockers.
• Antihistamines: Diphenhydramine, Fexofenadine, Cetirizine.
• Other Medications: Hypnotics (Remeron, Zolpidem), and certain anti-retrovirals.

Because so many medications from various specialties contribute to weight gain, a team approach and open communication become vital for effective management.

“Diet IV Therapy” as a Weight Management Approach

“Diet IV therapy,” the intravenous infusion of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, is increasingly marketed as a quick fix for weight loss. Here, we look at how it works, its touted benefits, the scientific evidence, and real risks.

Description and Components

Diet IV therapy involves infusing fluids, vitamins, minerals, or medications directly into the bloodstream through a vein, often in the arm or hand, enabling immediate absorption. This is useful for individuals with malabsorption or those recovering from illness or surgery. Typical nutrients in these drips include B Complex vitamins, Vitamin C, Zinc, Magnesium, and occasionally compounds like "Lipo C" (Methionine, Inositol, Choline), L-Carnitine, and Glutathione. Certain IV therapies may also include medications such as Peptide YY agonists or bimagrumab.

Claimed Benefits and Scientific Evidence

Proponents suggest that Diet IV therapy quickens metabolism, boosts energy, burns fat, and improves sleep by ensuring nutrients are absorbed efficiently. Clinics often market it as an effective wellness solution, particularly for people feeling rundown from dieting. However, the scientific evidence for its direct effect on weight loss is minimal. The FDA does not approve IV therapies for weight loss, and respected medical organizations do not recommend them for this purpose. Some studies have indicated minor subjective improvements in energy or mood, but any resulting weight changes are typically due to combined lifestyle modifications rather than the IV therapy itself.

Risks and Concerns

Though IV therapy can be safe when medically indicated and administered by trained professionals, its elective use poses several risks:

• Nutrient overdose: Bypassing digestive safeguards can lead to excessive doses, risking toxicity.
• Air embolism: Air entering the bloodstream can have serious consequences.
• Allergic reactions: Components in the drip may trigger adverse responses.
• Blood clots, infection, and tissue injury: Inserting an IV can increase these risks, especially if not conducted in sterile conditions.
• Fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances: Dangerous for those with kidney or heart conditions.
• Metabolic abnormalities and liver dysfunction: Long-term use increases the risks further.

Most experts recommend dietary improvements or oral supplements as safer and more cost-effective alternatives for the general public.

Prescription "Diet Pills" for Weight Management

Prescription "diet pills" are a well-established medical solution for weight gain—especially when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. Let’s break down how these drugs work, what’s available, how effective they are, and what side effects to consider.

Description and Mechanisms of Action

Prescription weight loss medications are recommended for individuals with a BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with certain health issues). When paired with a healthy diet and exercise, these medications enhance weight loss via three main pathways:

• Appetite suppression: Medications such as bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave) and phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) reduce hunger by influencing brain chemistry.
• Fat absorption inhibition: Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) blocks fat absorption in the gut, decreasing caloric intake.
• Hormonal regulation (GLP-1 receptor agonists): Medications like Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) mimic hormones that slow stomach emptying and curb appetite, also improving blood sugar regulation.

Common FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications

Prominent prescription drugs include:

• Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
• Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave)
• Liraglutide (Saxenda)
• Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
• Semaglutide (Wegovy)
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
• Setmelanotide (Imcivree, for certain genetic obesity conditions)

Efficacy and Side Effects

Prescription weight loss medications, especially newer GLP-1 agonists, can produce 5–16% (or more) weight loss when combined with lifestyle change. For example, Wegovy users often lose at least 5% of initial body weight, and Zepbound may result in up to 18% reduction. However, stopping medication often leads to weight regain, underscoring the importance of ongoing healthy habits.

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, and, with Orlistat, fatty stools. GLP-1 agonists sometimes cause “sulphur burps,” dry mouth, or site irritation (for injectables). Cost and insurance coverage should also be considered, as these medications can be expensive.

Best Clinics in Korea for Medication Weight Gain

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for medication weight gain:

365mc Hospital - Sinsa

365mc Hospital – Sinsa is a leading center for obesity treatment and body contouring in South Korea, offering state-of-the-art procedures delivered by an expert team using advanced techniques and technology. For individuals experiencing weight gain while on medication, 365mc Sinsa provides targeted, safe, and responsible solutions to reduce stubborn fat and enhance overall body proportions, with a strong emphasis on optimal results and minimal downtime.

• Why 365mc Hospital – Sinsa is ideal for medication-related weight gain
  • Specialized focus on obesity care using advanced technology and rigorous safety protocols
  • Comprehensive, targeted liposuction options to reshape areas that can remain resistant to lifestyle changes
    • Abdomen Liposuction: Contours the midsection for a smoother, more toned appearance
    • Arm Liposuction: Removes upper-arm fat to create a firmer, sculpted profile
    • Thighs Liposuction: Reduces thigh fat for a leaner look and improved lower-body proportionality
    • Love Handles Liposuction: Defines the waistline by addressing flanks often resistant to diet and exercise
    • Face Liposuction: Refines the chin and neck for a more defined jawline and facial contour
  • LAMS (Liposuction Assisted Morphological Surgery): A minimally invasive approach that combines liposuction with precise body contouring to deliver targeted outcomes with minimal downtime and high satisfaction
  • All procedures performed by highly trained professionals; a commitment to excellence that has established 365mc as a leader in obesity treatment in South Korea

You can check out their website here: 365mc Hospital - Sinsa Website

Three Wishes Clinic - Myeongdong

Three Wishes Clinic – Myeongdong is a leading destination in Korea for individuals seeking refined, non-surgical solutions to appearance changes associated with medication-related weight gain. Experience personalized and advanced medical beauty care at Three Wishes Clinic in Myeongdong, where safety and satisfaction come first on your journey to a more confident you. With a safety-first philosophy, tailored treatment planning, and a full suite of contouring, lifting, and skin-regenerating technologies, the clinic focuses on restoring balanced definition, tightening laxity from weight fluctuations, and elevating overall skin quality with natural-looking results and minimal downtime.

• Safety-first, personalized care plans designed for those navigating appearance changes from medication-related weight gain.
• Targeted contouring with Fat Dissolving Injections to slim localized pockets such as the chin, jowls, or jawline—ideal for refining stubborn areas without surgery.
• Skin lifting and tightening with Shurink ultrasound to enhance elasticity on the face or body without needles or downtime.
• Subtle lift and collagen stimulation with Thread Lifting to address mild sagging after weight fluctuations.
• Facial harmonization using Dermal Fillers to rebalance contours and Botox to soften dynamic lines for a refreshed, natural look.
• Comprehensive skin revitalization options—CO2 Laser for texture and scars, Rejuran Healer for elasticity and skin regeneration, Facial Peels for tone and smoothness, PDT Acne Treatment for acne-prone skin, and customized Skin Care Treatments for ongoing maintenance.
• Confidence-enhancing finishing touches with Semi-Permanent Makeup, including eyebrow, hairline/scalp, and lip microblading to refine definition and symmetry.
• Minimal-downtime procedures in the heart of Myeongdong, with a strong emphasis on patient satisfaction and results that complement your overall wellness journey.

You can check out their website here: Three Wishes Clinic - Myeongdong Website

365mc Hospital

365mc Hospital is Korea’s dedicated obesity treatment hospital focused exclusively on body contouring and fat reduction. For over 20 years, it has led the field with hospital-level safety that meets and exceeds large medical school surgery-center standards—an excellence recognized by the Korean Health Ministry Seal. With a nationwide network of 18 clinics and 22 main doctors, more than 3,000 successful surgical liposuctions, and insights distilled from 5 million treatments, 365mc blends deep experience with cutting-edge technology—including the Microsoft co-developed Motion-Capture and AI-Assisted Liposuction (M.A.I.L.) system—to deliver precise, natural-looking sculpting across the abdomen, back, chest, hips, neck, thighs, and arms. Every patient receives dedicated 1:1 care on surgery day and a structured 7-week recovery pathway featuring hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy and personalized nutrition counseling, supporting a faster, more comfortable recovery and refined body lines.

• Singular focus on obesity and fat reduction makes 365mc the go-to choice when medication-related weight gain leads to stubborn, localized fat that resists lifestyle measures.
• Hospital-level safety and precision, recognized by the Korean Health Ministry Seal, with systems purpose-built for liposuction and the confidence to accept complex cases.
• AI-enhanced precision through the M.A.I.L. system delivers real-time surgical feedback to optimize body shape while preserving cell balance for authentic, sculpted results.
• LAMS (Local Anesthetic Minimal-Invasive Liposuction) offers immediate, visible contouring with minimal downtime and no scarring—ideal for patients seeking targeted improvements without traditional surgical recovery.
• Comprehensive, 1:1 recovery care on the day of surgery and a structured 7-week post-op program, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy and tailored dietary consultations, to speed recovery and maintain results.
• Personalized nutrition services and a meal diary app promote practical, real-world dietary strategies to manage weight maintenance after medication-related changes.
• Proven scale and experience: over 20 years as a trailblazer, 18 clinics across Korea, 22 main doctors, 3,000+ surgical liposuctions, and safety protocols informed by 5 million treatments.
• Full spectrum of solutions—from standard and advanced liposuction to bespoke programs like the Hourglass Hip—so care plans can be tailored to each person’s goals.
• Innovation, research, and education culture that continuously refines techniques and supports long-term outcomes for patients affected by medication weight gain.

You can check out their website here: 365mc Hospital Website

Seeking Weight Management Solutions in South Korea: A Medical Tourist Perspective

South Korea is gaining global attention for affordable, high-quality medical care. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering weight management therapies as a medical tourist.

Overview of Medical Tourism in South Korea

With a medical tourism industry valued at $2.0 billion in 2024 and sophisticated packages that include everything from consultations to accommodation, South Korea is a preferred destination for patients seeking affordable, advanced, and convenient care. The government enforces rigorous safety standards and offers integrated service packages for international visitors.

Process for Obtaining “Diet IV Therapy”

Medical tourists typically begin with a detailed consultation, during which a healthcare professional creates a custom nutrient IV plan. Major clinics will monitor vital signs during and after administration, and further sessions may be recommended as needed. However, this procedure is not FDA-approved for weight loss, and patients—especially those with fluid retention or heart/kidney conditions—should exercise caution and consult thoroughly with clinicians beforehand.

Process for Obtaining Prescription “Diet Pills”

Patients interested in prescription diet pills in South Korea visit a clinic for evaluation and personalized planning. Leading providers will investigate your medical history and weight-related goals before prescribing drugs like Wegovy, which must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. You may need to put down a deposit. Policies for foreign patients vary, so direct consultation with Korean clinics is recommended for precise requirements.

Associated Costs and International Comparison

Diet IV Therapy in South Korea:

• $40–$225 USD per session, sometimes bundled for multiple treatments.

International IV Therapy Costs:

• USA: $150–$400 per session
• Turkey: $75–$250
• Canada: $140–$315

Prescription Diet Pills in South Korea:

• Wegovy: $294–$735 USD per month, with similar drugs in the $294–$735 range.
• US prices are often 2–5x higher than those in Korea.

Overall Medical Tourism Costs:

• Patients must account for medical fees, travel, lodging, companion expenses, and out-of-pocket post-care. For example, bariatric surgery might cost $6,000–$9,000 in Korea versus $18,000–$25,000 in the US.

Patient Experiences and Clinical Perspectives

“Diet IV Therapy” for Medication-Induced Weight Gain

Patients who use Diet IV therapy mostly report feeling more energetic, clear-headed, or rejuvenated—particularly during recovery or after intense workouts. However, these experiences are largely anecdotal, with weight loss more likely tied to improved lifestyle efforts alongside the treatment than to the IV therapy alone.

Prescription “Diet Pills” for Medication-Induced Weight Gain

Patients on prescription medications, especially GLP-1 receptor agonists, describe notable weight reduction, less hunger, and reduced “food noise.” Some, like Andrea (on semaglutide), found it transformative for both physical and mental health. Mounjaro users have reported steady weight loss with minimal side effects. Managing mild to moderate side effects is often possible with lifestyle adjustments. These medications typically require long-term commitment; stopping them often results in regain.

Clinical Perspectives on Addressing Medication-Induced Weight Gain

Clinicians take a comprehensive approach that includes:

• Reviewing current medications to spot weight-gaining agents
• Making informed substitutions when possible
• Integrating lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise)
• Adding evidence-based medications (e.g., GLP-1 agonists) when needed

Combined care from physicians, dietitians, and specialists is critical. For patients with psychiatric medication-induced weight gain or diabetes, GLP-1 agonists demonstrate both weight loss efficacy and stability in mental health conditions.

Conclusion

Medication-induced weight gain, or iatrogenic obesity, frequently results from prescription drugs, but a variety of solutions exist. Evidence supports newer prescription "Diet Pills"—particularly GLP-1 agonists—as safe, effective options, while "Diet IV therapy" lacks strong scientific backing for weight loss. South Korea presents a cost-effective destination with advanced care, yet patients must fully research financial and medical requirements. A holistic, collaborative care approach is essential for success, and patients should always consult their healthcare provider to choose the safest and most effective weight management options.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32