Antiobesity drugs: current and future issues

Overweight and obesity affect more than 60% of the population in the United States. Many social and environmental factors influence this phenomenon. Because of the tremendous difficulties associated with addressing these factors, health care providers have been looking for a magic pill that resolves this tissue. Although there is no panacea, this article is intended to concisely review commonly prescribed medications for obesity, their efficacy, and side effects. In addition, some pharmacologic agents with a promising antiobesity action are discussed.