A narrative review of approved and emerging anti-obesity medications.
Saudi Pharm J · 2023
Last updated 2026-05-28A review of anti-obesity medications (AOMs) found that nearly six AOMs and combination therapies are approved by the FDA. Recent guidelines now focus on patient-centered goals rather than just weight loss, but the long-term effects of these drugs on social, mental, and physical health remain unclear.
AI summary of the abstract below.
| Journal | Saudi Pharm J, 2023 |
|---|---|
| Citations | 33 |
| Relative citation ratio | 5.20 |
| NIH percentile | 93 |
| Molecules | — |
| Conditions studied | Obesity |
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Recently, many drugs have been approved for halting overweight and obesity-few types of research shifted to using Anti-obesity medications (AOM) solely for well-being and shape-keeping.
OBJECTIVE: This narrative review's objective was to explore the use of AOM in relation to their medical indications, efficacy, and cardiovascular safety.
METHODS AND MATERIALS: We have conducted a narrative review of the literature on approved/non-approved AOM used for obesity and overweight. We have shed light on the emerging trials of therapies and evolving remedies.
RESULTS: Recently, there has been an enormous change in the use of AOM with high consumption that deserves extensive surveillance for the long-term consequences and impact on social, mental, and physical health. Nearly six AOMs and combined therapy are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The recent guidelines for obesity management have shifted the focus from weight loss to goals that the patient considers essential and toward targeting the root cause of obesity.
CONCLUSION: The use of AOM increased enormously despite its sometimes-dubious safety and ineffectiveness. The public and medical professionals should be vigilant to the real-world benefits of anti-obesity drugs and their achieved effectiveness with an improved safety profile.
Verbatim abstract via PubMed 37712012 ↗