Obesity Pharmacotherapies Plus Lifestyle Modifications Can Aid Weight Loss

Individuals with overweight or obesity who have failed to maintain weight loss with lifestyle modifications alone can benefit from initiating obesity pharmacotherapies, according to Dr Angela Golden, DNP, FNP-C, the author of a recent narrative review.

Obesity is a chronic disease that requires a multifaceted approach to management. In addition to lifestyle intervention, pharmacotherapy is a proven way to aid in weight loss and maintain patients’ goals.
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For her review, Dr Golden performed a literature review to assess current prescribing information through July 2017.

Results indicated that there are currently 5 long-term and 1 short-term FDA-approved pharmacotherapies for obesity in the United States.

Individuals with obesity, or overweight with comorbidities, who have failed to maintain weight loss with calorie restriction and increased physical activity alone may benefit from initiating obesity pharmacotherapies.

“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,” Dr Golden concluded. “Variables such as contraindications, individual comorbidities, patient choice, patient readiness to incorporate additional behavioral changes (e.g., alcohol prohibition), and cost should guide choices.”

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Golden A. Current pharmacotherapies for obesity: a practical perspective [Published online October 12, 2017]. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract. doi:10.1002/2327-6924.12519.