Multi-Factorial Issues

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This multi-factorial condition is associated with increased risk of other conditions, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (Slentz et al., 2004). In 2005, the overall costs of obesity were $56.6 billion in Australia (Colagiuri et al. 2010). By eradicating obesity, not only would the economic burden on the healthcare system become significantly reduced, but the prevalence of these debilitating conditions would also decline. Anti-obesity drugs can be used to ensure sustainable, long-term weight management in patients rather than making drastic lifestyle changes. The currently available weight loss drugs, which have been FDA-approved for long-term use, are lorcaserin and orlistat (Kim et al., 2013). They act to centrally …show more content…

In 2005, the overall costs of obesity were $56.6 billion in Australia (Colagiuri et al. 2010). By eradicating obesity, not only would the economic burden on the healthcare system be significantly reduced, but the prevalence of these debilitating conditions would also decline. Anti-obesity drugs can be used to ensure sustainable, long-term weight management in patients rather than making drastic lifestyle changes. The currently available weight loss drugs, which have been FDA-approved for long-term use, are lorcaserin and orlistat (Kim et al., 2013). They act to centrally suppress appetite or prevent fat absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, respectively (Kim et al., 2013). As these drugs are relatively new, there are no generic formulations available, therefore there are no alterations to cheaper options of these currently expensive drugs. Most innovative drugs first entering the market will be expensive, however, over time, pharmaceutical companies will generally develop generic formulations that are …show more content…

The specific duration and types of exercises required for weight loss in obese patients has yet to be discovered (Harrison et al., 2004). Nevertheless, a study conducted by Harrison et al. (2004) showed that orlistat was well-tolerated with patients losing 10% of their body weight. Improvements in fasting glucose levels and glycosylated haemoglobin levels were also observed. Similarly, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of lorcaserin demonstrated a significant reduction in weight at one year and maintenance of weight loss at two years in comparison to placebo (Smith et al.,

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