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Updated: May 1, 2026
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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
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Zonisamide for weight loss in adolescents
Mathew L Nguyen1, Mustafa H Pirzada1, Michael A Shapiro1
1Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Summary
Zonisamide effectively reduced weight and BMI in an obese adolescent, decreasing weight by over 16% in 4 months. This case highlights zonisamide as a potential pharmacologic option for adolescent obesity treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Adolescent Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Childhood and adolescent obesity is a significant public health concern in the U.S.
- Physicians seek safe and effective weight management strategies for adolescents.
- Pharmacologic interventions are being explored for severe or treatment-resistant adolescent obesity.
Observation:
- A case study of an obese adolescent with a BMI of 37.8 (>98th percentile) is presented.
- The adolescent was treated with zonisamide for weight loss.
- Weight and BMI were monitored over 4 months of outpatient follow-up.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a substantial weight reduction, decreasing from 126.8 kg to 106.2 kg (20.6 kg loss, 16.25% reduction).
- The patient's BMI decreased from 37.8 to 31.7 (96th percentile for age).
- A steady decrease in weight and BMI was observed during the treatment period.
Implications:
- Zonisamide demonstrates potential as a pharmacologic agent for adolescent weight loss.
- Further research is warranted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of zonisamide in larger adolescent populations.
- This case contributes to understanding treatment options for severe adolescent obesity.
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