Weight-reducing drugs

Table 12.1 Effects of an alleged weight reducing drug on subjects weights...

Because of the low efficacy of the drugs listed in Table 37-5, intensive research continues. (Some drugs approved for other indications that reduce appetite and possible future weight loss drugs are set forth in Table 37-5.1, see online version of this book). Because of the redundancy of the physiologic mechanisms for control of body weight, it seems likely that polypharmacy targeting multiple pathways will be needed to achieve success. 

The randomized clinical trial is the most reliable method for assessing the efficacy of diet or drug therapy. A number of systematic reviews have been conducted on randomized clinical trials that investigated low-fat diets versus other weight-reducing diets in overweight or obese individuals (Willett, 2002 Kris-Etherton et al., 2002 Pirozzo et al., 2003 Sanders, 2003). 

Numerous drugs are marketed to treat metabolic diseases, which include weight reducing agents, antidiabetics, lipid-lowering treatments, and antihypertensives. The pharmacology, positive attributes, efficacy, and limitations for each drug class are summarized in Tables (2-5) (56, 57). 

An increase in molecular weight, that is, extending a homologous series, often changes from sweet to bitter. Further increases in homologation reduce drug solubility below taste threshold values... 

Further studies are necessary to evaluate and document the observed weight-reducing action of green tea extract, especially in patients with a severe obesity problem. Further studies on the effects of tea catechins on the metabolism of catecholic hormones and their related diseases are warranted. The potential interactions between EGCG and catecholic hormones or drugs should also be considered." Further studies are required to determine the best dosage for tea consumption. Pure components in... 

Avoid antacids and nonprescription cou i, cold, allergy antidiarrheal, and diet (weight-reducing) dni unless dieir use has been approved by die primary care provider. Some of diese dni interfere widi die action of die cardiotonic drug or cause odier, ix teiitially serious, problems. (See hiteractions. )... 

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