Long-term weight loss with sibutramine: a randomized controlled trial

Clinical Impact of Weight-Loss Pharmacotherapy in Patients with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Obesity is associated with the development and progression of multiple cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and is an important contributor to the global burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Guidelines suggest that clinicians provide lifestyle counseling and promote lifestyle modifications before considering weight-loss surgery. However, despite lifestyle modifications and increased physical activity, most patients with obesity will not lose significant weight or will experience weight regain. Weight-loss pharmacotherapy added to lifestyle modification has long been perceived as a bridge between lifestyle modifications alone and weight-loss surgery. However, since its inception, weight-loss pharmacotherapy has been plagued by variable efficacy and concern about cardiovascular safety. Following requirements from regulatory authorities, efficacy and cardiovascular safety trials have been conducted for the currently available weight-loss pharmacotherapeutic agents. Overall, these trials have shown that weight-loss pharmacotherapy is only modestly efficient for the inducement of weight loss. Recent trials have also demonstrated the cardiovascular safety of some of these agents. We review these trials with a focus on the clinical impact of these weight-loss pharmacotherapeutic agents in patients with atherosclerotic CVD.

Sibutramine as a Cause of Sudden Cardiac Death

Importance. Sibutramine was withdrawn from the US market due to association with adverse cardiovascular outcomes especially with patients having preexisting cardiac disease. However, continued presence of sibutramine in herbal medications is a concern to public safety. Results. We report a case of a patient with no evidence of previous coronary heart disease, who presented with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). Urgent coronary catheterization showed nonobstructive coronaries. However, patient died unexpectedly within 24 hours of admission. The patient denied toxic habits but was taking over-the-counter weight loss herbal supplements. Complete autopsy was performed which showed sibutramine in the toxicology. Patient died due to complications of acute inadvertent intoxication of sibutramine. Conclusion and Relevance. This is the first case report in literature showing association of sibutramine to sudden cardiac death in patients with no prior cardiac history. The continued presence of sibutramine in some over-the-counter weight loss formulations is a very concerning public health issue.

Long-term effects of weight-reducing drugs in people with hypertension

BACKGROUND

This is the third update of this review, first published in July 2009. All major guidelines on treatment of hypertension recommend weight loss; anti-obesity drugs may be able to help in this respect.

OBJECTIVES

Primary objectives: To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically-induced reduction in body weight in adults with essential hypertension on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular morbidity, and adverse events (including total serious adverse events, withdrawal due to adverse events, and total non-serious adverse events).. Secondary objectives: To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically-induced reduction in body weight in adults with essential hypertension on change from baseline in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and on body weight reduction.

SEARCH METHODS

For this updated review, the Cochrane Hypertension Information Specialist searched the following databases for randomised controlled trials up to March 2020: the Cochrane Hypertension Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE (from 1946), Embase (from 1974), the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The searches had no language restrictions. We contacted authors of relevant papers about further published and unpublished work.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials of at least 24 weeks' duration in adults with hypertension that compared approved long-term weight-loss medications to placebo.  DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently selected studies, assessed risks of bias, and extracted data. Where appropriate and in the absence of significant heterogeneity between studies (P > 0.1), we pooled studies using a fixed-effect meta-analysis. When heterogeneity was present, we used the random-effects method and investigated the cause of the heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

This third update of the review added one new trial, investigating the combination of naltrexone/bupropion versus placebo. Two medications, which were included in the previous versions of this review (rimonabant and sibutramine) are no longer considered relevant for this update, since their marketing approval was withdrawn in 2010 and 2009, respectively. The number of included studies in this review update is therefore six (12,724 participants in total): four RCTs comparing orlistat to placebo, involving a total of 3132 participants with high blood pressure and a mean age of 46 to 55 years; one trial comparing phentermine/topiramate to placebo, involving 1305 participants with high blood pressure and a mean age of 53 years; and one trial comparing naltrexone/bupropion to placebo, involving 8283 participants with hypertension and a mean age of 62 years. We judged the risks of bias to be unclear for the trials investigating orlistat or naltrexone/bupropion. and low for the trial investigating phentermine/topiramate. Only the study of naltrexone/bupropion included cardiovascular mortality and morbidity as predefined outcomes. There were no differences in the rates of all-cause or cardiovascular mortality, major cardiovascular events, or serious adverse events between naltrexone/bupropion and placebo. The incidence of overall adverse events was significantly higher in participants treated with naltrexone/bupropion. For orlistat, the incidence of gastrointestinal side effects was consistently higher compared to placebo. The most frequent side effects with phentermine/topiramate were dry mouth and paraesthesia. After six to 12 months, orlistat reduced systolic blood pressure compared to placebo by mean difference (MD) -2.6 mm Hg (95% confidence interval (CI) -3.8 to -1.4 mm Hg; 4 trials, 2058 participants) and diastolic blood pressure by MD -2.0 mm Hg (95% CI -2.7 to -1.2 mm Hg; 4 trials, 2058 participants). After 13 months of follow-up, phentermine/topiramate decreased systolic blood pressure compared to placebo by -2.0 to -4.2 mm Hg (1 trial, 1030 participants) (depending on drug dosage), and diastolic blood pressure by -1.3 to -1.9 mm Hg (1 trial, 1030 participants) (depending on drug dosage). There was no difference in the change in systolic or diastolic blood pressure between naltrexone/bupropion and placebo (1 trial, 8283 participants). We identified no relevant studies investigating liraglutide or lorcaserin in people with hypertension.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In people with elevated blood pressure, orlistat, phentermine/topiramate and naltrexone/bupropion reduced body weight; the magnitude of the effect was greatest with phentermine/topiramate. In the same trials, orlistat and phentermine/topiramate, but not naltrexone/bupropion, reduced blood pressure. One RCT of naltrexone/bupropion versus placebo showed no differences in all-cause mortality or cardiovascular mortality or morbidity after two years. The European Medicines Agency refused marketing authorisation for phentermine/topiramate due to safety concerns, while for lorcaserin the application for European marketing authorisation was withdrawn due to a negative overall benefit/risk balance. In 2020 lorcaserin was also withdrawn from the US market. Two other medications (rimonabant and sibutramine) had already been withdrawn from the market in 2009 and 2010, respectively.

Long-term effects of a three-component lifestyle intervention on emotional well-being in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

Many women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) report high depression rates. The relationship between PCOS and these high depression rates is unclear. Two-component lifestyle interventions have revealed short-term effects on depression scores in this group of women. In general, 3-component interventions including diet, exercise, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are more effective in the long-term to improve emotional well-being. This has not yet been studied in women with PCOS. This study examined the effect of 20 CBT lifestyle (LS) sessions combined with a healthy diet and physical therapy with or without 9 months additional feedback through Short Message Service (SMS) via mobile phone, compared to care as usual (CAU, involving advice to lose weight). In this secondary analysis, 155 women with PCOS and a BMI above 25 kg/m2 were eligible. Depression scores decreased significantly in the LS programme compared to CAU (P = 0.045). In both the LS programme without SMS (P = 0.036) and the LS programme with SMS (P = 0.011) depression scores decreased while no change was observed in CAU (P = 0.875). Self-esteem scores improved significantly in the LS programme compared to CAU (P = 0.027). No differences in body image scores were observed in LS participants compared to CAU (P = 0.087), although body image improved significantly in both the LS without SMS (P = 0.001) and with SMS (P = 0.008) study arms. We found no significant mediating role by androgens in the relationship between LS participants and emotional well-being. Only weight-loss mediated the relationship between LS and self-esteem. To conclude, a three-component lifestyle intervention programme with or without additional SMS resulted in significant improvements in depression and self-esteem compared to CAU, in women with PCOS, obesity, and a wish to achieve a pregnancy. Testosterone, androstenedione, DHEA, insulin, HOMA-IR, and cortisol did not mediate this effect. Weight loss mediated the effects on self-esteem but not on depression and body-image. This suggests that lifestyle treatment independent of weight loss can reduce depression and body-image, but both lifestyle treatment and weight loss can improve self-esteem. Thus, a three-component lifestyle intervention based on CBT could prove successful in improving mood in women with PCOS who are overweight or obese and attempting to become pregnant.

Effects of Gambisan in overweight adults and adults with obesity: A retrospective chart review

OBJECTIVE

A retrospective chart review was conducted to explore the effect of Gambisan, a granular extract of novel herbal medicine, for short-term (≤16 weeks) weight loss in adults who are overweight and those with obesity.

METHODS

Outpatients of Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital (Seoul, Korea) who took Gambisan and underwent bioelectric impedance analysis were selected (Jan 2011 to Dec 2015); their electronic medical records and clinical charts were retrospectively reviewed. The effectiveness of Gambisan was primarily evaluated by comparing body weight (BW) at baseline and endpoint, using paired t tests; the safety of Gambisan was evaluated on the basis of adverse events (AEs) experienced by patients.

RESULTS

Two hundred five patients were included in this study. The study population exhibited a significant reduction in BW (73.69 ± 14.49 kg to 69.01 ± 13.20 kg, P < .001) as well as percentage body fat (37.38 ± 5.38% to 34.50 ± 5.83%, P < .001). Moreover, 111 (54.1%) patients achieved modest weight loss (≥5%), while 35 (17.1%) achieved ≥10% weight loss. Furthermore, Gambisan induced significant reduction of BW in all subgroups (body mass index, sex, prescribed duration, and dosage). Among 139 patients with available data, 79 (56.8%) reported loss-of-appetite. In addition, 120 (mostly mild) AEs were reported in 69 (49.6%) patients, and the most frequent AEs were nausea, palpitation, and insomnia.

DISCUSSION

Despite limitations in interpreting the results of this retrospective medical record review, Gambisan induced statistically and clinically meaningful weight loss with a tolerable level of AEs. Based on the findings of this review, further well-designed clinical trials are warranted.

The safety and effectiveness of commonly-marketed natural supplements for weight loss in populations with obesity: A critical review of the literature from 2006 to 2016

Objective: To evaluate the evidence published from 2006 to 2016 on the effectiveness and safety of commonly used natural supplements for weight loss in individuals with obesity.Methods: Amazon and Google were searched for names of mono-agent natural supplements marketed for weight loss and a list of the 10 supplements was created. Google Scholar, Pubmed, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library were searched for articles that met inclusion.Results: At least one article was published on the effectiveness or safety of bitter orange, capsinoid, carnitine, chromium picolinate, Coleus forskohlii, conjugated linoleic acid, glucomannan, green tea and psyllium for weight loss in populations with obesity from 2006 to 2016. There was insufficient evidence to suggest that the natural supplements examined contribute to significant weight loss, with the exception of perhaps glucomannan in the form of PGX. In general, the majority of side-effects reported were minor to moderate, and gastrointestinal-related. However, in some cases extreme side-effects such as liver and kidney failure were observed.Conclusion: Contrary to popular belief, results of this review suggest that the use of natural supplements for weight loss are unlikely to contribute to meaningful weight loss and in some cases may contribute to harm.

Proportional Feedback Control of Energy Intake During Obesity Pharmacotherapy

OBJECTIVE

Obesity pharmacotherapies result in an exponential time course for energy intake whereby large early decreases dissipate over time. This pattern of declining drug efficacy to decrease energy intake results in a weight loss plateau within approximately 1 year. This study aimed to elucidate the physiology underlying the exponential decay of drug effects on energy intake.

METHODS

Placebo-subtracted energy intake time courses were examined during long-term obesity pharmacotherapy trials for 14 different drugs or drug combinations within the theoretical framework of a proportional feedback control system regulating human body weight.

RESULTS

Assuming each obesity drug had a relatively constant effect on average energy intake and did not affect other model parameters, our model correctly predicted that long-term placebo-subtracted energy intake was linearly related to early reductions in energy intake according to a prespecified equation with no free parameters. The simple model explained about 70% of the variance between drug studies with respect to the long-term effects on energy intake, although a significant proportional bias was evident.

CONCLUSIONS

The exponential decay over time of obesity pharmacotherapies to suppress energy intake can be interpreted as a relatively constant effect of each drug superimposed on a physiological feedback control system regulating body weight.

Modeling energy intake and body weight effects of a long-acting amylin analogue

The inhibitory effect of anti-obesity drugs on energy intake (EI) is counter-acted by feedback regulation of the appetite control circuit leading to drug tolerance. This complicates the design and interpretation of EI studies in rodents that are used for anti-obesity drug development. Here, we investigated a synthetic long-acting analogue of the appetite-suppressing peptide hormone amylin (LAMY) in lean and diet-induced obese (DIO) rats. EI and body weight (BW) were measured daily and LAMY concentrations in plasma were assessed using defined time points following subcutaneous administration of the LAMY at different dosing regimens. Overall, 6 pharmacodynamic (PD) studies including a total of 173 rats were considered in this evaluation. Treatment caused a dose-dependent reduction in EI and BW, although multiple dosing indicated the development of tolerance over time. This behavior could be adequately described by a population model including homeostatic feedback of EI and a turnover model describing the relationship between EI and BW. The model was evaluated by testing its ability to predict BW loss in a toxicology study and was utilized to improve the understanding of dosing regimens for obesity therapy. As such, the model proved to be a valuable tool for the design and interpretation of rodent studies used in anti-obesity drug development.

State of the Art Review: Long-term Pharmacotherapy for Overweight and Obesity: A Review of Sibutramine, Orlistat, and Rimonabant

The objective of this review is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pharmacotherapy for long-term maintenance of weight loss in overweight and obese patients. Literature was obtained through a MEDLINE (1966 to July 2006) search and a bibliographic review of published articles. Key terms used included overweight, obesity, sibutramine, orlistat, and rimonabant. The search was further limited to clinical trials in humans and in the English language. Obesity is a chronic condition requiring long-term therapy. Two agents, sibutramine and orlistat, are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the long-term treatment of obesity. Rimonabant, marketed in Europe as Accomplia, has demonstrated efficacy for long term weight loss, however an Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted against its approval in June 2007 due to safety concerns (psychiatric effects). For clinically meaningful results, these agents must be used in conjunction with lifestyle therapy, including a hypocaloric diet, increased physical activity, and behavioral modification. This article reviews clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of sibutramine, orlistat, and rimonabant in reducing weight and examines other health benefits and risks associated with these agents.

Are missing outcome data adequately handled? A review of published randomized controlled trials in major medical journals

Background Randomized controlled trials almost always have some individuals with missing outcomes. Inadequate handling of these missing data in the analysis can cause substantial bias in the treatment effect estimates. We examine how missing outcome data are handled in randomized controlled trials in order to assess whether adequate steps have been taken to reduce nonresponse bias and to identify ways to improve procedures for missing data.

Methods We reviewed all randomized trials published between July and December 2001 in BMJ, JAMA, Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine, excluding trials in which the primary outcome was described as a time-to-event. We focused on trial designs, how missing outcome data were described and the statistical methods used to deal with the missing outcome data, including sensitivity analyses.

Results We identified 71 trials of which 63 (89%) reported having partly missing outcome data: 13 trials had more than 20% of patients with missing outcomes. In 26 trials that measured the outcome at a single time point, 92% performed a complete case analysis and 8% imputed the missing outcomes using baseline values or the worst case value. In 37 trials with repeated measures of the outcome, 46% performed complete case analyses, potentially excluding individuals with some follow-up data, while 14% performed a repeated measures analysis, 19% used the last observation carried forward, 11% imputed with the worst case value and 2% imputed using regression predictions. Thirteen (21%) of trials with missing data reported a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions Our review shows that missing outcome data are a common problem in randomized controlled trials, and are often inadequately handled in the statistical analysis in the top tier medical journals. Authors should explicitly state the assumptions underlying the handling of the missing outcomes and justify them through data descriptions and sensitivity analyses.

Sibutramine update

The introduction of sibutramine has brought a new therapeutic option for the management of many overweight and obese patients. To date it has been used by more than eight million patients in over 70 countries. As part of a comprehensive programme that includes diet and lifestyle guidance, the additive effect of sibutramine (10 or 15 mg/day) facilitates patients to achieve and sustain greater weight loss. Overall weight loss is typically 5—10% of starting body weight, and this is almost entirely due to loss of excess adipose tissue. Commensurate with this level of weight loss, benefits have been noted in comorbidities such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Sibutramine is a serotonin-noradrenaline (norepinephrine) re-uptake inhibitor which acts centrally to induce satiety and maintain thermogenic expenditure. The main side effects are increased heart rate and blood pressure which are generally small, but require frequent checks.

Testing the usefulness of the number needed to treat to be harmed (NNTH) in benefit-risk evaluations: case study with medicines withdrawn from the European market due to safety reasons

OBJECTIVE

To explore the usefulness of number needed to treat to be harmed (NNTH), in benefit-risk assessments, by studying the agreement between NNTH values and withdrawals of medicines from European market due to safety reasons.

METHODS

Medicines with data from longitudinal studies were included. Studies were identified from European Medicines Agency's Reports. Meta-analyses were performed to pool odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence-intervals (CI). Published control event rates were applied to ORs to calculate NNTHs (95%CI) for selected adverse events.

RESULTS

NNTH (95%CI) decreased from pre- to post-marketing for the eight medicines included: peripheral neuropathy (∞ vs. 12[non-significant; NS] with almitrine; heart valve disease with benfluorex (∞ vs. NNTH ranging from 7[4-13] to 7[5-9]); myopathy (-4096[NS] vs. 797[421-1690]), new-onset diabetes (113[NS] vs. 390[425-778]), bleeding (∞ vs. 517[317-1153]), and infection (∞ vs. 253[164-463]) with niacin-laropiprant; psychiatric disorders (12[7-34] vs. 9[5-24]) with rimonabant; myocardial infarction (MI) [-1305 vs. 270[89-4362]) with rofecoxib; MI (-510 vs. NNTH ranging from 152[55-4003] to 568[344-1350]) with rosiglitazone; cardiovascular events (∞ vs. 245[129-1318]) with sibutramine; and liver injury (∞ vs. 5957[NS]) with ximelagatran.

CONCLUSION

NNTH have potential of use as a supportive tool in benefit-risk re-evaluations of medicines and may help regulators to making decisions on drug safety.

Exploratory Literature Meta-Analysis to Characterize the Relationship Between Early and Longer Term Body Weight Loss for Antiobesity Compounds

The presented analysis was performed to characterize the relationship between treatment-related early (week 4) and longer term (3-6 months) weight loss to understand the potential utility of 4-week proof-of-mechanism studies in the early decision-making process during clinical development of new antiobesity compounds. A regression-based meta-analysis was performed leveraging publically available clinical outcomes data to (1) characterize the within-trial relationship between treatment-related early and longer term body weight loss and (2) identify and quantify key covariate effects on this relationship. Data from 89 randomized clinical trials with 209 treatment arms, representing observations from 54 461 patients and 9 treatments, were available for the meta-analysis. Results indicated that (1) there is a correlation between treatment-related early and longer term body weight loss (r > 0.9), (2) baseline body weight influences the relationship between early and longer term weight loss, whereas comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, class of drugs including GLP-1 analogues and the antiobesity compounds lorcaserin or phentermine/topiramate showed no significant effects on this relationship. The model was externally evaluated with data from the investigational compound beloranib, for which longer term weight loss could be successfully predicted based on early response data. Based on these results, the identified strong relationship between treatment-related early and longer term weight loss appears to be independent of mechanism of action. Thus, findings from this analysis can optimize design of clinical studies and facilitate development of new anti-obesity compounds.

Faster drug approval: challenges for safety

INTRODUCTION

More rapid drug premarketing procedures pose a challenge for regulatory agencies in terms of innovation and improving real-world safety and effectiveness Areas covered: This review considers the blockbuster drugs used over the previous fifteen years with adverse reactions after marketing, the elements and time span of risk identification and the measures implemented or considered, based on the existing literature and reports from the agencies Expert opinion: Risk prediction is founded on several factors: randomization, sample size, a well-established endpoint for safety, use of a comparator rather than placebo and a longer Phase-III period, in which a serious illness may be identified by early signs of alteration in the primary parenchyma with the latest biochemical, instrumental and imaging techniques. In comparative non-inferiority evaluations, increased safety should be preferred, with the exception of drugs that may be useful in serious or life-threatening diseases for which there are few or no effective existing therapies. A period of restricted use may be required to test and dispense new drugs, as well as to implement specific methods for the early detection of adverse events. It is important not to regard a new medicine axiomatically as the best treatment before it comes into wide use.

Long-term effects of weight-reducing drugs in people with hypertension

BACKGROUND

All major guidelines on antihypertensive therapy recommend weight loss; anti-obesity drugs may be able to help in this respect.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically induced reduction in body weight in adults with essential hypertension on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular morbidity, and adverse events (including total serious adverse events, withdrawal due to adverse events, and total non-serious adverse events).

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically induced reduction in body weight in adults with essential hypertension on change from baseline in systolic blood pressure, change from baseline in diastolic blood pressure, and body weight reduction.

SEARCH METHODS

We obtained studies using computerised searches of the Cochrane Hypertension Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, the clinical trials registry ClinicalTrials.gov, and from handsearches in reference lists and systematic reviews (status as of 13 April 2015).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials in hypertensive adults of at least 24 weeks' duration that compared long-term pharmacologic interventions for weight loss with placebo. 

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies, assessed risk of bias, and extracted data. Where appropriate and in the absence of significant heterogeneity between studies (P > 0.1), we pooled studies using fixed-effect meta-analysis. When heterogeneity was present, we used the random-effects method and investigated the cause of heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

After updating the literature search, which was extended to include four new weight-reducing drugs, we identified one additional study of phentermine/topiramate, bringing the total number of studies to nine that compare orlistat, sibutramine, or phentermine/topiramate to placebo and thus fulfil our inclusion criteria. We identified no relevant studies investigating rimonabant, liraglutide, lorcaserin, or naltrexone/bupropion. No study included mortality and cardiovascular morbidity as predefined outcomes. Incidence of gastrointestinal side effects was consistently higher in those participants treated with orlistat versus those treated with placebo. The most frequent side effects were dry mouth, constipation, and headache with sibutramine, and dry mouth and paresthaesia with phentermine/topiramate. In participants assigned to orlistat, sibutramine, or phentermine/topiramate body weight was reduced more effectively than in participants in the usual-care/placebo groups. Orlistat reduced systolic blood pressure as compared to placebo by -2.5 mm Hg (mean difference (MD); 95% confidence interval (CI): -4.0 to -0.9 mm Hg) and diastolic blood pressure by -1.9 mm Hg (MD; 95% CI: -3.0 to -0.9 mm Hg). Sibutramine increased diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo by +3.2 mm Hg (MD; 95% CI: +1.4 to +4.9 mm Hg). The one trial that investigated phentermine/topiramate suggested it lowered blood pressure.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In people with elevated blood pressure, orlistat and sibutramine reduced body weight to a similar degree, while phentermine/topiramate reduced body weight to a greater extent. In the same trials, orlistat and phentermine/topiramate reduced blood pressure, while sibutramine increased it. We could include no trials investigating rimonabant, liraglutide, lorcaserin, or naltrexone/bupropion in people with elevated blood pressure. Long-term trials assessing the effect of orlistat, liraglutide, lorcaserin, phentermine/topiramate, or naltrexone/bupropion on mortality and morbidity are unavailable and needed. Rimonabant and sibutramine have been withdrawn from the market, after long-term trials on mortality and morbidity have confirmed concerns about the potential severe side effects of these two drugs. The European Medicines Agency refused marketing authorisation for phentermine/topiramate due to safety concerns, while the application for European marketing authorisation for lorcaserin was withdrawn by the manufacturer after the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use judged the overall benefit/risk balance to be negative.

The effectiveness of pharmaceutical interventions for obesity: weight loss with orlistat and sibutramine in a United Kingdom population-based cohort

Aims

Drug treatments for obesity have proven efficacy from randomized trials, but their effectiveness in routine clinical practice is unknown. We assessed the effects on weight and body mass index (BMI) of orlistat and sibutramine when delivered in routine primary care.

Methods

We used United Kingdom data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink to estimate the effects of orlistat or sibutramine on weight and BMI over 3 years following treatment initiation. For comparison, we matched each patient with up to five obese patients receiving neither drug. Mixed effects linear regression with splines was used to model change in weight and BMI. Mean change with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was estimated.

Results

We identified 100 701 patients receiving orlistat, 15 355 receiving sibutramine and 508 140 non-intervention patients, with body mass index of 37.2, 36.6 and 33.2 kg m⁻², respectively. Patients receiving orlistat lost, on average, 0.94 kg month⁻¹ (0.93 to 0.95) over the first 4 months. Weight gain then occurred, although weight remained slightly below baseline at 3 years. Patients receiving sibutramine lost, 1.28 kg month⁻¹ (1.26 to 1.30) over the first 4 months, but by 3 years had exceeded baseline weight. Non-intervention patients had slight increases in weight throughout the 3 year period, with gains ranging between 0.01 and 0.06 kg month⁻¹.

Conclusions

Orlistat and sibutramine had early effects on weight loss, not sustained over 3 years. As new treatments for obesity are approved, their effectiveness should be measured in routine clinical practice, as effectiveness may be considerably less than seen in randomized trials.

Weight outcomes audit in 1.3 million adults during their first 3 months' attendance in a commercial weight management programme

Background

Over sixty percent of adults in the UK are now overweight/obese. Weight management on a national scale requires behavioural and lifestyle solutions that are accessible to large numbers of people. Evidence suggests commercial weight management programmes help people manage their weight but there is little research examining those that pay to attend such programmes rather than being referred by primary care. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of a UK commercial weight management programme in self-referred, fee-paying participants.

Methods

Electronic weekly weight records were collated for self-referred, fee-paying participants of Slimming World groups joining between January 2010 and April 2012. This analysis reports weight outcomes in 1,356,105 adult, non-pregnant participants during their first 3 months’ attendance. Data were analysed by regression, ANOVA and for binomial outcomes, chi-squared tests using the R statistical program.

Results

Mean (SD) age was 42.3 (13.6) years, height 1.65 m (0.08) and start weight was 88.4 kg (18.8). Mean start BMI was 32.6 kg/m² (6.3 kg/m²) and 5 % of participants were men. Mean weight change of all participants was −3.9 kg (3.6), percent weight change −4.4 (3.8), and BMI change was −1.4 kg/m² (1.3). Mean attendance was 7.8 (4.3) sessions in their first 3 months. For participants attending at least 75 % of possible weekly sessions (n = 478,772), mean BMI change was −2.5 kg/m² (1.3), weight change −6.8 kg (3.7) and percent weight change −7.5 % (3.5).

Weight loss was greater in men than women absolutely (−6.5 (5.3) kg vs −3.8 (3.4) kg) and as a percentage (5.7 % (4.4) vs 4.3 % (3.7)), respectively. All comparisons were significant (p < 0.001). Level of attendance and percent weight loss in the first week of attendance together accounted for 55 % of the variability in weight lost during the study period.

Conclusions

A large-scale commercial lifestyle-based weight management programme had a significant impact on weight loss outcomes over 3 months. Higher levels of attendance led to levels of weight loss known to be associated with significant clinical benefits, which on this scale may have an impact on public health.

Quantifying energy intake changes during obesity pharmacotherapy

OBJECTIVE

Despite the fact that most obesity drugs primarily work by reducing metabolizable energy intake, elucidation of the time course of energy intake changes during long-term obesity pharmacotherapy has been prevented by the limitations of self-report methods of measuring energy intake.

METHODS

A validated mathematical model of human metabolism was used to provide the first quantification of metabolizable energy intake changes during long-term obesity pharmacotherapy using body weight data from randomized, placebo-controlled trials that evaluated 14 different drugs or drug combinations.

RESULTS

Changes in metabolizable energy intake during obesity pharmacotherapy were reasonably well-described by an exponential pattern comprising three simple parameters, with early large changes in metabolizable energy intake followed by a slow transition to a smaller persistent drug effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated body weight measurements along with a mathematical model of human metabolism can be used to quantify changes in metabolizable energy intake during obesity pharmacotherapy. The calculated metabolizable energy intake changes followed an exponential time course, and therefore different drugs can be evaluated and compared using a common mathematical framework.

Obesity--a neuropsychological disease? Systematic review and neuropsychological model

Obesity is a global epidemic associated with a series of secondary complications and comorbid diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, sleep-breathing disorders, and certain forms of cancer. On the surface, it seems that obesity is simply the phenotypic manifestation of deliberately flawed food intake behavior with the consequence of dysbalanced energy uptake and expenditure and can easily be reversed by caloric restriction and exercise. Notwithstanding this assumption, the disappointing outcomes of long-term clinical studies based on this assumption show that the problem is much more complex. Obviously, recent studies render that specific neurocircuits involved in appetite regulation are etiologically integrated in the pathomechanism, suggesting obesity should be regarded as a neurobiological disease rather than the consequence of detrimental food intake habits. Moreover, apart from the physical manifestation of overeating, a growing body of evidence suggests a close relationship with psychological components comprising mood disturbances, altered reward perception and motivation, or addictive behavior. Given that current dietary and pharmacological strategies to overcome the burgeoning threat of the obesity problem are of limited efficacy, bear the risk of adverse side-effects, and in most cases are not curative, new concepts integratively focusing on the fundamental neurobiological and psychological mechanisms underlying overeating are urgently required. This new approach to develop preventive and therapeutic strategies would justify assigning obesity to the spectrum of neuropsychological diseases. Our objective is to give an overview on the current literature that argues for this view and, on the basis of this knowledge, to deduce an integrative model for the development of obesity originating from disturbed neuropsychological functioning.

Association of run-in periods with weight loss in obesity randomized controlled trials

Study-level design characteristics that inform the optimal design of obesity randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been examined in few studies. A pre-randomization run-in period is one such design element that may influence weight loss. We examined 311 obesity RCTs published between 1 January 2007 and 1 July 2009 that examine d weight loss or weight gain prevention as a primary or secondary end-point. Variables included run-in period, pre-post intervention weight loss, study duration (time), intervention type, percent female and degree of obesity. Linear regression was used to estimate weight loss as a function of (i) run-in (yes/no) and (ii) run-in, time, percent female, body mass index and intervention type. Interaction terms were also examined. Approximately 19% (18.6%) of the studies included a run-in period, with pharmaceutical studies having the highest frequency. Although all intervention types were associated with weight loss (Mean = 2.80 kg, SD = 3.52), the inclusion of a pre-randomization run-in was associated with less weight loss (P = 0.0017) compared with studies that did not include a run-in period. However, this association was not consistent across intervention types. Our results imply that in trials primarily targeting weight loss in adults, run-in periods may not be beneficial for improving weight loss outcomes in interventions.

Weight maintenance and additional weight loss with liraglutide after low-calorie-diet-induced weight loss: the SCALE Maintenance randomized study

OBJECTIVE

Liraglutide, a once-daily human glucagon-like peptide-1 analog, induced clinically meaningful weight loss in a phase 2 study in obese individuals without diabetes. The present randomized phase 3 trial assessed the efficacy of liraglutide in maintaining weight loss achieved with a low-calorie diet (LCD).

METHODS

Obese/overweight participants (≥18 years, body mass index ≥30 kg m(-2) or ≥27 kg m(-2) with comorbidities) who lost ≥5% of initial weight during a LCD run-in were randomly assigned to liraglutide 3.0 mg per day or placebo (subcutaneous administration) for 56 weeks. Diet and exercise counseling were provided throughout the trial. Co-primary end points were percentage weight change from randomization, the proportion of participants that maintained the initial ≥5% weight loss, and the proportion that lost ≥5% of randomization weight (intention-to-treat analysis). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00781937.

RESULTS

Participants (n=422) lost a mean 6.0% (s.d. 0.9) of screening weight during run-in. From randomization to week 56, weight decreased an additional mean 6.2% (s.d. 7.3) with liraglutide and 0.2% (s.d. 7.0) with placebo (estimated difference -6.1% (95% class intervals -7.5 to -4.6), P<0.0001). More participants receiving liraglutide (81.4%) maintained the ≥5% run-in weight loss, compared with those receiving placebo (48.9%) (estimated odds ratio 4.8 (3.0; 7.7), P<0.0001), and 50.5% versus 21.8% of participants lost ≥5% of randomization weight (estimated odds ratio 3.9 (2.4; 6.1), P<0.0001). Liraglutide produced small but statistically significant improvements in several cardiometabolic risk factors compared with placebo. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders were reported more frequently with liraglutide than placebo, but most events were transient, and mild or moderate in severity.

CONCLUSION

Liraglutide, with diet and exercise, maintained weight loss achieved by caloric restriction and induced further weight loss over 56 weeks. Improvements in some cardiovascular disease-risk factors were also observed. Liraglutide, prescribed as 3.0 mg per day, holds promise for improving the maintenance of lost weight.

Long-term effects of weight-reducing drugs in hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND

All major guidelines for antihypertensive therapy recommend weight loss; anti-obesity drugs might be a helpful option.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically induced reduction in body weight with orlistat, sibutramine or rimonabant on:- all cause mortality - cardiovascular morbidity - adverse events

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES

- changes in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure - body weight reduction even though sibutramine and rimonabant have been withdrawn from the market.

SEARCH METHODS

Studies were obtained from computerised searches of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and from hand searches in reference lists and systematic reviews (status as of 17(th) August, 2012).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials in adult hypertensive patients with a study duration of at least 24 weeks comparing pharmacologic interventions (orlistat, sibutramine, rimonabant) for weight loss with placebo.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Studies were pooled using fixed-effect meta-analysis in the absence of significant heterogeneity between studies (p>0.1). Otherwise, we used the random effects method and investigated the cause of heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

After the updated literature search, the number of studies remained the same, with eight studies comparing orlistat or sibutramine to placebo fulfilling our inclusion criteria. No relevant studies investigating rimonabant for weight loss were identified. No study included mortality and cardiovascular morbidity as a pre-defined outcome. Incidence of gastrointestinal side effects was consistently higher in orlistat treated vs. placebo treated patients. Most frequent side effects with sibutramine were dry mouth, constipation and headache. Patients assigned to weight loss diets, orlistat or sibutramine reduced their body weight more effectively than patients in the usual care/placebo groups. Blood pressure reduction in patients treated with orlistat was for systolic blood pressure (SBP): weighted mean difference (WMD): -2.5 mm Hg; 95% CI, -4.0 to -0.9 mm Hg and for diastolic blood pressure (DBP): WMD -1.9 mm Hg; 95% CI, -3.0 to -0.9 mm Hg. Meta-analysis showed DBP increase under therapy with sibutramine: WMD +3.2 mm Hg; 95%CI +1.4 to +4.9 mm Hg.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In patients with elevated blood pressure, orlistat and sibutramine reduced body weight to a similar degree. In the same trials, orlistat reduced blood pressure and sibutramine increased blood pressure. No trials investigating rimonabant in people with elevated blood pressure could be included. Long-term trials assessing the effect of orlistat, sibutramine and rimonabant on mortality and morbidity are lacking. Rimonabant and sibutramine have been withdrawn from the market for the time being.

Obesity in Older Adults: Technical Review and Position Statement of the American Society for Nutrition and NAASO, The Obesity Society

Obesity causes serious medical complications and impairs quality of life. Moreover, in older persons, obesity can exacerbate the age-related decline in physical function and lead to frailty. However, appropriate treatment for obesity in older persons is controversial because of the reduction in relative health risks associated with increasing body mass index and the concern that weight loss could have potential harmful effects in the older population. This joint position statement from the American Society for Nutrition and NAASO, The Obesity Society reviews the clinical issues related to obesity in older persons and provides health professionals with appropriate weight-management guidelines for obese older patients. The current data show that weight-loss therapy improves physical function, quality of life, and the medical complications associated with obesity in older persons. Therefore, weight-loss therapy that minimizes muscle and bone losses is recommended for older persons who are obese and who have functional impairments or medical complications that can benefit from weight loss.

Effect of anti-obesity drug on cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Anti-obesity drugs are widely used to prevent the complications of obesity, however, the effects of anti-obesity drugs on cardiovascular risk factors are unclear at the present time. We carried out a comprehensively systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of anti-obesity drugs on cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODOLOGY AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We systematically searched Medline, EmBase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, reference lists of articles and proceedings of major meetings for relevant literatures. We included randomized placebo-controlled trials that reported the effects of anti-obesity drugs on cardiovascular risk factors compared to placebo. Overall, orlistat produced a reduction of 2.39 kg (95%CI-3.34 to -1.45) for weight, a reduction of 0.27 mmol/L (95%CI: -0.36 to -0.17) for total cholesterol, a reduction of 0.21 mmol/L (95%CI: -0.30 to -0.12) for LDL, a reduction of 0.12 mmol/L (95%CI: -0.20 to -0.04) for fasting glucose, 1.85 mmHg reduction (95%CI: -3.30 to -0.40) for SBP, and a reduction of 1.49 mmHg (95%CI: -2.39 to -0.58) for DBP. Sibutramine only showed effects on weight loss and triglycerides reduction with statistical significances. Rimonabant was associated with statistically significant effects on weight loss, SBP reduction and DBP reduction. No other significantly different effects were identified between anti-obesity therapy and placebo.

CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE

We identified that anti-obesity therapy was associated with a decrease of weight regardless of the type of the drug. Orlistat and rimonabant could lead to an improvement on cardiovascular risk factors. However, Sibutramine may have a direct effect on cardiovascular risk factors.

One-year changes in symptoms of depression and weight in overweight/obese individuals with type 2 diabetes in the Look AHEAD study

Depressed individuals are frequently excluded from weight loss trials because of fears that weight reduction may precipitate mood disorders, as well as concerns that depressed participants will not lose weight satisfactorily. The present study examined participants in the Look AHEAD study to determine whether moderate weight loss would be associated with incident symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation, and whether symptoms of depression at baseline would limit weight loss at 1 year. Overweight/obese adults with type 2 diabetes (n = 5,145) were randomly assigned to an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention (ILI) or a usual care group, Diabetes Support and Education (DSE). Of these, 5,129 participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and had their weight measured at baseline and 1 year. Potentially significant symptoms of depression were defined by a BDI score ≥10. Participants in ILI lost 8.6 ± 6.9% of initial weight at 1 year, compared to 0.7 ± 4.8% for DSE (P < 0.001, effect size = 1.33), and had a reduction of 1.4 ± 4.7 points on the BDI, compared to 0.4 ± 4.5 for DSE (P < 0.001, effect size = 0.23). At 1 year, the incidence of potentially significant symptoms of depression was significantly lower in the ILI than DSE group (6.3% vs. 9.6%) (relative risk (RR) = 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.5, 0.8; P < 0.001). In the ILI group, participants with and without symptoms of depression lost 7.8 ± 6.7% and 8.7 ± 6.9%, respectively, a difference not considered clinically meaningful. Intentional weight loss was not associated with the precipitation of symptoms of depression, but instead appeared to protect against this occurrence. Mild (or greater) symptoms of depression at baseline did not prevent overweight/obese individuals with type 2 diabetes from achieving significant weight loss.

Attendance and weight outcomes in 4754 adults referred over 6 months to a primary care/commercial weight management partnership scheme

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ON THIS SUBJECT

•  There is growing evidence of the effectiveness of commercial weight management programmes in the community. A recent randomized controlled trial has shown commercial providers to be more effective than NHS providers for weight management solutions in primary care. Some commercial weight management providers have established national slimming on referral schemes for weight management, which result on average in weight losses of 4-5% over a 12-week referral period. A recent randomized controlled trial of a similar scheme over 12 months yielded similar weight loses. Another RCT comparing commercial providers over 6 months showed average weight losses of ∼6.6% across providers.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

•  The present study shows that when local primary care practitioners target resources to where they, as health professionals, felt they would have the most beneficial effect in their local communities, greater weight losses can be achieved. •  Different NHS Trusts extended 12-week referrals by an additional 12 weeks in a total of 4754 patients. •  Mean weight losses of 8.6% were achieved suggesting that local targeting of primary care resources can maximize returns for NHS investments in commissioning the services of commercial weight management organizations.

SUMMARY

This project audited attendance and weight loss in a primary care/commercial weight management partnership scheme in patients who participated over 6 months. 4754 adult patients (575 men, 4179 women) were referred to Slimming World for 24 weekly sessions. Data were analysed using individual weekly weight records. Mean (standard deviation, SD) body mass index (BMI) change was -3.3 kg m(-2) (2.2), weight change -8.9 kg (6.0), percent weight change -8.6% (5.3) and number of sessions attended 21.3 (3.2) of 24. For patients attending at least 20 of 24 sessions (n = 3626 or 76.3%), mean (SD) BMI change was -3.6 kg m(-2) (2.2), weight change -9.6 kg (6.1), percent weight change -9.3% (5.3). Weight loss was greater in men than women (P < 0.001). 74.5% of all patients enrolled, and 79.3% of patients attending 20 or more sessions achieved at least 5% weight loss. 37.3% of the whole population lost ≥10% of their weight. Weight gain was prevented in 96.3% of all patients referred. Referral to a commercial organization for community-based lifestyle intervention is a practical option for longer-term National Health Service weight management strategies.

Reuptake inhibitors of dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin

Pharmacological inhibition of monoamine reuptake transporters has been known for many years as an effective therapy to reduce food intake and body weight in obese subjects. However, most of the marketed drugs failed after a distinct period in clinical use and had to be withdrawn because of serious adverse effects resulting in a negative benefit-risk profile. The most common side effects for this drug class included increases in systemic or pulmonary blood pressure and/or heart rate, cardiac valvulopathies, higher cardiovascular event rates, psychiatric disorders, or high abuse potential. The recent withdrawal of sibutramine as result of its adverse actions on the cardiovascular system highlighted again the problems with this drug class in antiobesity therapy. Recent developments to combine reuptake inhibitors with other drug classes, for example, opioid antagonists seem to be a promising approach to improve the benefit-risk profile of these compounds.This chapter will discuss the history of this drug class in appetite control, its mechanism of action, and the clinical effects of selected drugs from this class.

Serotonin receptor 2A -1438G/A promoter polymorphism in relation to obesity and response to sibutramine

AIMS

Serotonin has been related to appetite and body weight control. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible association of the -1438 /A promoter polymorphism of the serotonin 2A receptor (5HT2AR) gene with obesity-related variables and response to sibutramine.

PATIENTS/METHODS

We examined the potential impact of this polymorphism on obesity and related metabolic traits in a cohort of 234 overweight/obese and 103 lean Greek subjects. Additionally, we examined whether the 5HT2AR 1438A/G polymorphism influences weight reduction and change in body composition among 106 out of these subjects, who were treated with 15 g sibutramine. Genotyping was carried out by polymerase chain reaction and restriction enzyme analysis.

RESULTS

Body mass index, fat mass, and waist circumference were not significantly different across the 5HT2AR 1438A/G genotype groups in overweight/obese women. Polymorphic G allele was associated with higher triglyceride and insulin levels but not with other biochemical and metabolic parameters. Distribution of genotypes and alleles was not different between responders and nonresponders (weight loss >5 or <5 g).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results, it seems unlikely that the 5HT2AR 1438 /A polymorphism has a major impact on obesity and related traits or the response to sibutramine in Greek overweight/obese subjects.

Medications for weight reduction

Comparatively few drugs are available for the treatment of overweight patients, and their effectiveness is limited to palliation of the chronic disease of obesity. Nevertheless, drug development that is now underway is more rapid than in the past, and we anticipate the discovery of safe and effective pharmacologic strategies for the management of obesity and its serious complications.

Pharmacological approaches for management of child and adolescent obesity

Overweight and obesity among children and adolescents continue to be a global public health epidemic. Current national data on childhood and adolescent obesity show alarming statistics of overweight and obese children and adolescents. This epidemic runs across various continents and affects various ethnic populations. The current weight management practices involve dietary modification, behavioral change therapies involving exercise, pharmacological therapy and surgical intervention. The purpose of this current review is to focus on pharmacological therapy i.e. role of sibutramine and orlistat in childhood and adolescent weight management. An open search of PUBMED database was made with search 'key words' such as 'orlistat' or 'sibutramine' or "pharmacological approaches" and "child obesity" and "adolescent obesity". This yielded a total of 20 articles. All of these articles have been summarized in the current review. Sibutramine functions by promoting satiety and increases energy expenditure by inhibiting reuptake of noradrenaline and serotonin. Most of the studies, reviews and trials conducted using sibutramine among adolescents and children show limited short-term efficacy. The long-term effects of sibutramine use are not yet studied due to the severity of its side-effects profile. Orlistat was approved by Food and Drug Administration for adolescent weight reduction. Despite its approval, it has a limited role in adolescent and pediatric obesity reduction due to the purported malabsorption of fat soluble vitamins and its side-effect profile. Obesity and adolescent weight management in present times mainly deals with dietary modification with superadded behavioral therapies promoting exercise. There is insufficient evidence as of now if these alone would cause adequate weight reduction and weight maintenance. Pharmacotherapy i.e use of drugs like sibutramine and orlistat has a limited role in the current fight against childhood and adolescent obesity. Extreme side-effects, close monitoring and lack of long-term studies involving these drugs, suggest questionable efficacy in current times. Future research studies involving pharmacological agents need to not only have immense scientific rigor during preliminary analyses but should also translate their efficacy in practical and clinical settings.

Weight outcomes audit for 34,271 adults referred to a primary care/commercial weight management partnership scheme

OBJECTIVE

This project audited rate and extent of weight loss in a primary care/commercial weight management organisation partnership scheme.

METHODS

34,271 patients were referred to Slimming World for 12 weekly sessions. Data were analysed using individual weekly weight records.

RESULTS

Average (SD) BMI change was -1.5 kg/m² (1.3), weight change -4.0 kg (3.7), percent weight change -4.0% (3.6), rate of weight change -0.3 kg/week, and number of sessions attended 8.9 (3.6) of 12. For patients attending at least 10 of 12 sessions (n = 19,907 or 58.1%), average (SD) BMI change was -2.0 kg/m² (1.3), weight change -5.5 kg (3.8), percent weight change -5.5% (3.5), rate of weight change -0.4 kg/week, and average number of sessions attended was 11.5 (0.7) (p < 0.001, compared to all patients). Weight loss was greater in men (n = 3,651) than in women (n = 30,620) (p < 0.001). 35.8% of all patients enrolled and 54.7% in patients attending 10 or more sessions achieved at least 5% weight loss. Weight gain was prevented in 92.1% of all patients referred. Attendance explained 29.6% and percent weight lost in week 1 explained 18.4% of the variance in weight loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Referral to a commercial organisation is a practical option for National Health Service (NHS) weight management strategies, which achieves clinically safe and effective weight loss.

A randomized controlled trial of behavioral weight loss treatment versus combined weight loss/depression treatment among women with comorbid obesity and depression

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with clinical depression among women. However, depressed women are often excluded from weight loss trials.

PURPOSE

This study examined treatment outcomes among women with comorbid obesity and depression.

METHODS

Two hundred three (203) women were randomized to behavioral weight loss (n = 102) or behavioral weight loss combined with cognitive-behavioral depression management (n = 101).

RESULTS

Average participant age was 52 years; mean baseline body mass index was 39 kg/m(2). Mean Patient Health Questionnaire and Hopkins Symptom Checklist (SCL-20) scores indicated moderate to severe baseline depression. Weight loss and SCL-20 changes did not differ between groups at 6 or 12 months in intent-to-treat analyses (p = 0.26 and 0.55 for weight, p = 0.70 and 0.25 for depressive symptoms).

CONCLUSIONS

Depressed obese women lost weight and demonstrated improved mood in both treatment programs. Future weight loss trials are encouraged to enroll depressed women.

Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in obese subjects

PURPOSE

alpha-lipoic acid is an essential cofactor for mitochondrial respiratory enzymes that improves mitochondrial function. We previously reported that alpha-lipoic acid markedly reduced body weight gain in rodents. The purpose of this study was to determine whether alpha-lipoic acid reduces body weight in obese human subjects.

METHODS

in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 20-week trial, 360 obese individuals (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m(2) or BMI 27-30 kg/m(2) plus hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or hypercholesterolemia) were randomized to alpha-lipoic acid 1200 or 1800 mg/d or placebo. The primary end point was body weight change from baseline to end point.

RESULTS

the 1800 mg alpha-lipoic acid group lost significantly more weight than the placebo group (2.1%; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-2.8; P<.05). Urticaria and itching sensation were the most common adverse events in the alpha-lipoic acid groups, but these were generally mild and transient.

CONCLUSION

alpha-lipoic acid 1800 mg/d led to a modest weight loss in obese subjects. Alpha-lipoic acid may be considered as adjunctive therapy for obesity.

Treating obesity with a novel hand-held device, computer software program, and Internet technology in primary care: the SMART motivational trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term motivational effect of a technology-based weight reduction program for obese adults.

METHODS

One hundred and eleven obese (37.0+/-5.8 kg/m(2)) middle aged (45.5+/-10.8 years) adults (62% female) were randomly assigned to a usual care or experimental (SMART: self-monitoring and resting metabolic rate technology) group. The usual care group received a standard nutritional program in accordance to national guidelines. All participants received a comprehensive weight management program consisting of motivational interviewing (MI) sessions and automated e-mail behavioral newsletters. Bodyweight, arterial blood pressure, and psychobehavioral constructs were assessed over 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Completer analysis (n=80) indicated a significant improvement in bodyweight (-3.9%), systolic arterial pressure (-4 mmHg), and all motivational constructs following the 12-week study (p<or=.05). However, there were no significant differences between groups at any time period.

CONCLUSION

Based on these data, a 12-week comprehensive weight reduction program consisting of MI and automated e-mail behavioral newsletters with or without SMART is efficacious in treating obese adults.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Although both treatment programs were equally effective, clinicians should consider a treatment program that meets the need of the patient. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00750022.

Early response to sibutramine in patients not meeting current label criteria: preliminary analysis of SCOUT lead-in period

The Sibutramine Cardiovascular Outcomes (SCOUT) trial protocol defines a patient population predominantly outside current European Union label criteria. This article explores responses to sibutramine during the 6-week, single-blind, lead-in period between patients who conformed to the label requirements ("conformers") and those who did not ("nonconformers"). SCOUT is an ongoing, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled outcome trial in overweight/obese patients at high risk of a cardiovascular event. In total, 10,742 patients received sibutramine and weight management during the lead-in period. Initial responses were assessed post hoc in label conformers and nonconformers. Of that 8.1% patients met label criteria; 91.9%, the majority with cardiovascular disease and/or blood pressure >145/90 mm Hg, were nonconformers. Conformers and nonconformers had similar reductions in body weight (median change -2.2 kg) and waist circumference (women: -2.0 cm for both groups; men: -1.5 cm vs. -2.0 cm for conformers and nonconformers, respectively) over the 6-week period. Greater blood pressure falls were evident in nonconformers (median change -3.5/-1.0 vs. -1.0/0.0 mm Hg). Both groups had small pulse rate increases; median 1.5 bpm (nonconformers) vs. 3.0 bpm (conformers). There was a low incidence of serious adverse events (conformers: 1.0%; nonconformers: 2.8%) and ~93% of patients in both groups completed the 6-week period. The SCOUT lead-in period evaluating weight management with sibutramine confirms its good tolerability and efficacy in patients who meet current label criteria. Preliminary data from high-risk patients for whom sibutramine is currently contraindicated suggest a low discontinuation rate and few serious adverse events but confirmation from the SCOUT outcome data is needed.

Does depression reduce the effectiveness of behavioral weight loss treatment?

Limited evidence suggests that depression is associated with poorer outcomes in behavioral weight loss programs; however, people with major depression are typically excluded from weight loss intervention trials. This study examined the effect of depression on women's participation and weight loss in behavioral treatment. Non-treatment seeking obese women over 40 years of age with major depressive disorder (MDD, n = 65) and without MDD (n = 125) were recruited into a 26-session group intervention. Primary analyses compared participants' mean weight change from baseline to 6 and 12 months; at 6 months, women with MDD lost a mean of 3.8 kg vs 4.3 kg for women without MDD (t = 0.54, p = .59). At 12 months, women with MDD lost 3.0 kg and women without MDD lost 3.6 kg (t = 0.44, p =.66). Women who attended at least 12 treatment sessions lost more weight than women who attended fewer sessions, regardless of depression status (ie, there was no significant interaction between depression and session attendance). Results suggest that depression should not be an exclusion criterion for weight loss intervention programs.

Fundamentals of cardiometabolic risk factor reduction: achieving and maintaining weight loss with pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery

Obesity is a major health problem in the United States and many other countries because of its high prevalence and causal relationship with serious medical comorbidities. The therapeutic options currently available to help obese patients lose weight are: (1) therapeutic lifestyle change (behavioral, dietary, and physical activity modification); (2) pharmacotherapy; and (3) bariatric surgery. Lifestyle modification is the first therapeutic choice; however, achieving a successful long-term weight loss with lifestyle intervention alone is difficult. There is increasing interest, therefore, in the use of pharmacotherapy and surgery to treat obesity. Although there are a number of antiobesity medications available, the only medications approved in the United States for long-term treatment of obesity are sibutramine and orlistat. Use of these medications results in 3% to 5% more weight loss compared with placebo after 1 year. Bariatric surgery is an effective weight loss option for obese patients, but it is restricted to patients who are considered morbidly obese (ie, with a body mass index [BMI] > or =40 kg/m(2) or a BMI of 35-39.9 kg/m(2) with > or =1 severe obesity-related medical complication).

Potent and selective agonism of the melanocortin receptor 4 with MK-0493 does not induce weight loss in obese human subjects: energy intake predicts lack of weight loss efficacy

MK-0493 is a novel, potent, and selective agonist of the melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R), one of the best-validated genetic targets and considered one of the most promising for the development of antiobesity therapeutics. An ad libitum energy-intake model was qualified with excellent reproducibility: the geometric mean ratio (GMR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for total energy intake over a period of 24 h for 30 mg sibutramine/placebo was 0.82 (0.76, 0.88), and for 10 mg sibutramine/placebo it was 0.98 (0.91, 1.05). MK-0493 showed a small and marginally significant effect on 24-h energy intake, whereas 30 mg of sibutramine caused a significant reduction in total 24-h energy intake; specifically, the GMR (95% CI) for 30 mg sibutramine/placebo was 0.79 (0.74, 0.85). MK-0493 was associated with modest weight reduction from baseline but had only small, statistically insignificant effects relative to placebo after 12 weeks in a fixed-dose study and also after 18 weeks of stepped-titration dosing. We conclude that agonism of MC4R is not likely to represent a viable approach to the development of antiobesity therapeutics.

Sample size in obesity trials: patient perspective versus current practice

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patient opinions on acceptable risks in exchange for a given degree of weight loss and their implications for sample size determination in obesity randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

DESIGN

. Survey of patients entering RCTs for weight loss in a university-based clinical research setting and power calculations based on their responses. Participants. Men (n = 8) and women (n = 66) between 24 and 73 years of age with body mass indices ranging from 26.8 to 40.5 kg/m(2). Measurements. Survey responses to questions assessing the added risk of serious adverse events (SAEs) or death one is willing to assume for a given degree of weight loss.

RESULTS

For 5% and 10% weight loss against risk for death per se, the mean acceptable risk tended to be about 3.5%, but the median (0.00) and mode (0.00) suggested that for most individuals, only a risk of < or = 1% would be acceptable. Figures, estimated dropout rates, and base rates of SAEs (including deaths) from recent obesity trials indicate that 1-year 2-group obesity RCTs would need tens of thousands of participants per group to have 80% power to detect risks that are meaningful to patients at the 2-tailed 0.05 alpha level.

CONCLUSION

Patient education is needed to explain which risks are realistically detectable in RCTs so that patients may provide truly informed consent, or RCT standards should be modified to meet patients' implicit expectations.

Long-term effects of weight-reducing drugs in hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND

All major guidelines for antihypertensive therapy recommend weight loss; anti-obesity drugs might be a helpful option.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES

To assess the long-term effects of pharmacologically induced reduction in body weight with orlistat, sibutramine or rimonabant on:- all cause mortality - cardiovascular morbidity - adverse events

SECONDARY OBJECTIVES

- changes in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure - body weight reduction

SEARCH STRATEGY

Studies were obtained from computerised searches of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and from hand searches in reference lists and systematic reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials in adult hypertensive patients with a study duration of at least 24 weeks comparing pharmacologic interventions (orlistat, sibutramine, rimonabant) for weight loss with placebo.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Studies were pooled using fixed-effect meta-analysis in the absence of significant heterogeneity between studies (p>0.1). Otherwise, we used the random effects method and investigated the cause of heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight studies comparing orlistat or sibutramine to placebo fulfilled our inclusion criteria. No relevant studies investigating rimonabant for weight loss were identified. No study included mortality and cardiovascular morbidity as a pre-defined outcome. Incidence of gastrointestinal side effects was consistently higher in orlistat treated vs. placebo treated patients. Most frequent side effects with sibutramine were dry mouth, constipation and headache. Patients assigned to weight loss diets, orlistat or sibutramine reduced their body weight more effectively than patients in the usual care/placebo groups. Blood pressure reduction in patients treated with orlistat was for systolic blood pressure (SBP): weighted mean difference (WMD): -2.5 mm Hg; 95% CI, -4.0 to -0.9 mm Hg and for diastolic blood pressure (DBP): WMD -1.9 mm Hg; 95% CI, -3.0 to -0.9 mm Hg. Meta-analysis showed DBP increase under therapy with sibutramine: WMD +3.2 mm Hg; 95%CI +1.4 to +4.9 mm Hg.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In patients with elevated blood pressure, orlistat and sibutramine reduced body weight to a similar degree. In the same trials, orlistat reduced blood pressure and sibutramine increased blood pressure. No trials investigating rimonabant in people with elevated blood pressure could be included. Long-term trials assessing the effect of orlistat, sibutramine and rimonabant on mortality and morbidity are needed.