Anti-obesity drug

Anti-obesity drugs or weight loss medications are pharmacological agents that reduce or control weight. These drugs alter one of the fundamental processes of the human body, weight regulation, by altering either appetite, metabolism, or absorption of calories. The main treatment modalities for overweight and obese individuals remain dieting and physical exercise. However, anti-obesity drugs can be prescribed to individuals for whom these measures are not sufficient.

Types of Anti-obesity Drugs

There are several different types of anti-obesity drugs, including:

• Appetite suppressants (Anorectics), which act on the central nervous system to reduce hunger perception.
• Fat absorption inhibitors, such as Orlistat, which prevent the absorption of dietary fats.
• Metabolic rate increasers, which boost the number of calories burned by the body.
• Hormone modulators, such as those that increase feelings of fullness or satiety.

Mechanism of Action

Appetite Suppressants

Appetite suppressants work by mimicking the action of naturally occurring chemicals in the brain that regulate appetite. They can make a person feel full even when they have eaten less than usual.

Fat Absorption Inhibitors

Fat absorption inhibitors work by blocking the enzymes that break down fats in the intestine, thus reducing the amount of fat absorbed from food. This unabsorbed fat is then eliminated from the body in the stool.

Metabolic Rate Increasers

These drugs increase the body's metabolic rate, leading to more calories being burned throughout the day. This can be achieved through various mechanisms, including increasing heart rate or body temperature.

Hormone Modulators

Hormone modulators alter the balance of hormones that affect appetite and satiety. For example, they may increase levels of the hormone leptin, which signals the brain that the body has had enough to eat.

Common Anti-obesity Drugs

• Orlistat: A lipase inhibitor that reduces fat absorption from the digestive tract.
• Phentermine: An appetite suppressant of the amphetamine and phenethylamine class.
• Liraglutide (Saxenda): An injectable diabetes drug that reduces hunger and food intake.
• Bupropion/naltrexone (Contrave): A combination drug that affects the central nervous system to decrease appetite.

Side Effects

The use of anti-obesity drugs can come with side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and mood changes. The severity and type of side effects vary depending on the specific medication and the individual.

Regulation and Approval

In many countries, anti-obesity drugs are regulated by health authorities and require a prescription. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, for example, has approved several anti-obesity medications for long-term use. However, the approval process requires rigorous testing for safety and efficacy.

Conclusion

Anti-obesity drugs offer an additional strategy for weight loss for individuals who have not achieved their goals through diet and exercise alone. However, these medications are not a cure for obesity and should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular physical activity. It is important for individuals to discuss the potential benefits and risks of anti-obesity drugs with their healthcare provider.