Medications that cause weight loss
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Medications That Cause Weight Loss: An Overview
Introduction to Weight Loss Medications
Obesity is a significant health concern globally, often leading to comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases. While lifestyle modifications are the first line of treatment, pharmacological interventions are necessary for individuals who struggle to achieve or maintain weight loss through diet and exercise alone 13. This article provides an overview of medications that have been shown to cause weight loss, their mechanisms, and their efficacy.
FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications
Phentermine-Topiramate
Phentermine-topiramate is a combination drug that has shown significant efficacy in weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated that this medication can lead to a weight reduction of approximately 6.8% over 12 months 59. It works by suppressing appetite and increasing energy expenditure.
Liraglutide
Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, is another effective weight loss medication. It has been approved for obesity treatment at higher doses and has shown a weight reduction of about 5.4% over a year 19. Liraglutide enhances satiety and reduces hunger, making it easier for patients to adhere to a calorie-restricted diet.
Naltrexone-Bupropion
The combination of naltrexone and bupropion has also been approved for weight loss. This medication can lead to a weight reduction of around 4.0% over 12 months 59. It works by affecting the central nervous system to reduce appetite and cravings.
Orlistat
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that prevents the absorption of dietary fats. It is the only weight loss medication approved for use in adolescents and has shown a weight reduction of about 2.9% over a year 159. Orlistat is particularly useful for patients who struggle with high-fat diets.
Other Medications Associated with Weight Loss
Metformin
Metformin, commonly used for managing T2DM, has also been associated with modest weight loss. Studies have shown that metformin can lead to a weight reduction of approximately 1.1 kg 24. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing hepatic glucose production.
Exenatide
Exenatide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist, has been shown to cause weight loss in patients with T2DM. It can lead to a weight reduction of about 1.2 kg 24. Exenatide enhances satiety and slows gastric emptying, contributing to reduced calorie intake.
Topiramate and Zonisamide
Topiramate and zonisamide, initially used for epilepsy and migraine prevention, have also been found to cause significant weight loss. Topiramate can lead to a weight reduction of about 3.8 kg, while zonisamide can result in a weight loss of approximately 7.7 kg 23. These medications work by reducing appetite and increasing energy expenditure.
Emerging and Investigational Medications
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
Newer GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide have shown promising results in clinical trials. These medications can lead to substantial weight loss, with semaglutide resulting in a weight reduction of more than 5% 4. These drugs work by enhancing satiety and reducing hunger, similar to other GLP-1 receptor agonists.
SGLT2 Inhibitors
Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, canagliflozin, and dapagliflozin, are primarily used for managing T2DM but have also been associated with moderate weight loss. These medications can lead to a weight reduction of between 3.2% and 5% 410. They work by promoting the excretion of glucose through urine, thereby reducing calorie absorption.
Conclusion
Several medications have been shown to cause weight loss, either as their primary function or as a secondary benefit. FDA-approved drugs like phentermine-topiramate, liraglutide, naltrexone-bupropion, and orlistat have demonstrated significant efficacy in clinical trials. Additionally, medications used for managing T2DM, such as metformin, exenatide, and SGLT2 inhibitors, also contribute to weight loss. Emerging drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide offer promising new options for obesity management. However, the choice of medication should be tailored to the individual, considering the potential benefits and risks.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
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