Current pharmacotherapies for obesity: A practical perspective

ConclusionsObesity pharmacotherapies may assist those individuals who have obesity, or overweight with comorbidities, who have failed to maintain weight loss with lifestyle modifications alone (caloric restriction and increased physical activity). Currently approved options in the United States include phentermine for short‐term use and five obesity pharmacotherapies that can be used long‐term (orlistat, lorcaserin, phentermine–topiramate, naltrexone–bupropion, and liraglutide 3.0 mg). If the use of an obesity pharmacotherapy is indicated, treatment should be selected to provide the most appropriate option for each individual and their circumstances. Variables such as contraindications, individual comorbidities, patient choice, patient readiness to incorporate additional behavioral changes (e.g., alcohol prohibition), and cost should guide choices. Implications for PracticeEach of the obesity pharmacotherapies has advantages and disadvantages that can help guide treatment choice. Those receiving treatment may also have individual preferences based on factors such as administration route, frequency of dosing, and/or safety profile. In addition, some options may be particularly appropriate for patients with common obesity‐related complications such as depression or diabetes.
Source: Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: SUPPLEMENTS ‐ SPONSORED Source Type: research