Will intravenous fluid administration cause weight gain?

Infusion usually refers to intravenous (IV) therapy. IV therapy generally does not lead to weight gain; however, long-term use of hormone-containing medications may cause body weight increase. Specific details are as follows:

IV therapy itself does not necessarily result in weight gain in patients. However, some patients might experience weight gain over a period of half a month or more after receiving infusions. Weight gain is typically associated with lack of effective physical activity during treatment, accumulation of sodium ions, and adverse drug reactions. If certain hormonal drugs are administered during infusion, obesity may occur. However, short-term, low-dose use usually does not lead to obesity. If weight gain occurs, discontinuing the medication can help restore normal weight. Long-term, high-dose use of hormones may lead to gastrointestinal inflammation, loss of appetite, and central (or truncal) obesity. Therefore, it is recommended to use hormones judiciously.

Patients are advised to minimize IV therapy when possible and consider alternatives such as oral medications or intramuscular injections. Prolonged IV therapy may reduce immune function and could lead to dependency in patients.