Pharmacological Management of Obesity

Endocrine Society (ES) recommends that diet, exercise, and behavioral modification be included in all obesity management approaches for BMI ≥25 kg/m² and that other tools such as pharmacotherapy (BMI ≥27 kg/m² with comorbidity or >30) and bariatric surgery (BMI ≥35 kg/m² with comorbidity or >40) be used as adjuncts to behavioral modification to reduce food intake and increase physical activity when this is possible. Drugs may amplify adherence to behavior change and may improve physical functioning such that increased physical activity is easier in those who cannot exercise initially. Patients who have a history of being unable to successfully lose and maintain weight and who meet label indications are candidates for weight loss medications. ( 1 , H )