With the growth of obesity worldwide and the risks that excessive weight gain can cause, several treatments have been proposed. Despite the effectiveness of many drugs in reducing weight, especially when associated with bariatric surgery, several studies show that weight loss is not always sustained by patients, who eventually gain weight again. In addition, anti-obesity drugs have limited use due to their side effects, especially in long-term use. The search for new anti-obesity agents that are more effective and safe is, therefore, one of the current goals of science.
The prestigious scientific journal New England Journal of Medicine published, in its July 2015 edition, a study in which a molecule was tested against obesity. The molecule in question is a peptide analogue of glucagon that stimulates insulin secretion, reduces post-feeding glucagon levels, delays gastric emptying and reduces appetite.
The study in detail
The molecule tested was liraglutide, already used to combat type 2 diabetes . The study was double-blind, randomized and conducted by Dr. Xavier Pi-Sunyer for 56 weeks with more than 3700 patients on 6 continents who received either placebo or liraglutide at a dose of 3 mg daily. The US agency that regulates drugs, the FDA ( Food and Drug Administration ) approved liraglutide as the first glucagon analogue agent for weight reduction in patients with BMI equal to or greater than 30.
After the 56th week of the study, patients receiving liraglutide showed a mean loss of 8.4 kg versus 2.8 kg in patients receiving placebo. Patients who discontinued the drug after week 56 gained an average of 2.9 kg in 12 weeks.
In addition to the positive results of liraglutide in weight reduction, patients who used this drug had better control of blood glucose and blood insulin levels, a better profile of cardiovascular disease markers and, in general, a better quality of life. As a result, the study shows that liraglutide, at a dose of 3 mg per day, is an important ally in weight loss in obese or overweight patients.
Have we found a cure for obesity?
Although the results with liraglutide are encouraging, the researchers warn that this agent is not a definitive cure for obesity. Many patients with obesity, even after treatment with medication, can gain weight again and have diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition, researchers do not yet know how long liraglutide will need to be given, and longer studies (2 years in duration) are ongoing.
The best strategy against obesity
According to several health professionals, the best approach to fight obesity is a multidisciplinary strategy, with the participation of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists and physical educators. Research shows that weight loss based on only one approach (exercise or medication) is often ineffective, causing patients to gain weight again. Nutritionists also point out that focusing on diet alone is not conducive to effective weight loss.
The best thing to do then is to combine strategies for effective and healthy weight loss. The use of drugs for obesity must be prescribed and monitored by physicians and nutritionists, and their doses adjusted throughout the treatment. Another important aspect to consider is the psychological side. Many people want to lose weight quickly and end up submitting themselves to exaggerated and unhealthy diets. After reaching the goal, the patient regains weight what he had lost, entering the “accordion” effect. It is important to have patience and perseverance in the weight loss process, for sustainable weight loss.
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