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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
New trends in medicinal chemistry approaches to antiobesity therapy
Jinhwa Lee1, Kwang-Seop Song, Jahyo Kang
1Central Research Laboratories, Green Cross Corporation, 303 Bojeong-Dong, Giheung-Gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-Do, 446-770, Republic of Korea. jinhwalee@greencross.com
Abstract:
The prevalences of overweightedness and obesity are increasing globally at frightening rates, driven by social and economic changes. Furthermore, obesity is associated with the pathogeneses of major diseases, particularly diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. However, no satisfactorily safe, effective obesity drugs are commercially available at the present time. Only two drugs have been approved in the United States for the long-term treatment of obesity, sibutramine and orlistat. However, these drugs are minimally effective and have significant side effects, which are likely inhibit their use. Therefore, there is a huge opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of obese people through the discovery and development of additional pharmacotherapeutic options. In this review article, the authors focus on selected trends in medicinal chemistry and the approaches used to develop drugs for treating obesity.
Insights
Obesity rates are rising globally, increasing risks for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. New, effective obesity drugs are urgently needed due to current treatments
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Global obesity prevalence is increasing rapidly, driven by socioeconomic factors.
- Obesity is a major risk factor for severe diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
- Current obesity pharmacotherapies (sibutramine, orlistat) have limited efficacy and significant side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current trends in medicinal chemistry for obesity drug development.
- To explore novel approaches for creating safer and more effective anti-obesity medications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in medicinal chemistry.
- Analysis of drug development strategies targeting obesity.
Main Results:
- Identified key trends in medicinal chemistry relevant to obesity pharmacotherapy.
- Highlighted approaches for overcoming limitations of existing obesity drugs.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need for new, effective, and safe obesity medications.
- Medicinal chemistry offers promising avenues for developing improved anti-obesity drugs.
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