WEIGHT LOSS


Weight-loss medications of any type are appropriate for people with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above accompanied by weight-related medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus or hypertension.Defenfluramine and fenfluramine, sibutramine does not appear to be associated with valvular heart disease, although a small number of patients may develop significant increases in blood pressure.Over a six-month period, weight-loss medications may result in a 10-percent body weight reduction. Weight loss slows or stops after six months, and discontinuing medication usually causes weight regain. The continued use of medications keeps most of the lost weight from returning for two years. Many experts recommend that medications for weight control be used continuously, like medications for diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Unfortunately, few studies have examined the consequences of long-term use of weight-control medications.