What is a common pharmacologic treatment for obesity?

Phentermine and phentermine/topiramate are widely recognized as pharmacologic treatments for obesity due to their efficacy in promoting weight loss. Phentermine is a stimulant that suppresses appetite, while the combination with topiramate, an anticonvulsant, enhances weight loss effects by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. This combination has been shown to lead to significant weight loss in clinical studies and is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary changes and increased physical activity.

Using medications like phentermine or the combination of phentermine/topiramate can be particularly beneficial for patients with a body mass index (BMI) over a certain threshold or those with weight-related health issues. It is important that these treatments are utilized under medical supervision, as they can have side effects and may not be suitable for all patients.

In contrast, while other options such as olanzapine are known to cause weight gain and are typically used for treating mental health disorders, they are not suitable for obesity treatment. Fluoxetine, an SSRI used primarily for depression and anxiety, has shown some weight loss effects, but it is not primarily indicated for obesity. Lisdexamfetamine, used mainly for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), has