Pharmacotherapy for obese adolescents.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Obesity Medicine
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved phentermine in 1959 for short-term weight loss.
• Limited research initially supported phentermine's efficacy for weight loss.
• Pharmacotherapy is increasingly considered for managing obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review pharmaceutical agents used for weight loss.
• To discuss the role of pharmacotherapy in comprehensive weight management programs for adolescents.
• To highlight the importance of considering side effects and adverse events.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of medications for weight loss.
• Discussion of sympathomimetic amines, herbal products, sibutramine, orlistat, metformin, and rimonabant.
• Emphasis on integrating pharmacotherapy with diet, exercise, and behavioral modification.

Main Results:

• Phentermine, approved in 1959, is a key sympathomimetic amine for weight loss.
• Other reviewed agents include herbal products, sibutramine, orlistat, metformin, and rimonabant.
• Pharmacotherapy requires careful consideration of potential adverse effects.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacotherapy for morbidly obese adolescents should be part of a holistic weight-loss strategy.
• Comprehensive programs include diet, exercise, and behavioral interventions.
• Patient safety necessitates awareness of medication side effects and risks.