Pharmacologic management of obesity

Obesity is a major health problem in the United States. It is not only a problem in itself, but it is a predisposing factor for many chronic illnesses. Pharmaceutical houses have devoted much research in the development of drugs to combat the problem. While diet and exercise continue to be the first line of defense, many diet drugs are available on the market to help an individual lose weight. This article discusses some of the theories that appear to explain the development of the overweight condition and provides basic information on the drugs currently in use.