Anti-obesity drug study yields unimpressive results
UK customers exploring their obesity insurance options may want to re-consider the use of anti-obesity drugs, it has been suggested.
According to a study published on the online BMJ (British Medical Journal), people who take such drugs will only see "modest" weight loss while many will remain significantly overweight.
Looking at the long-term effectiveness of anti-obesity medications, Canadian researchers found that three drugs recommended for long-term use reduced weight by less than five kilogrammes.
The health benefits associated with taking the drugs varied, with one found to reduce the incidence of diabetes and all three lowering patients’ cholesterol levels.
However negative effects recorded included an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.
Professor Gareth Williams also warned of the potential damage to society if anti-obesity drugs are licensed to be sold without prescription.
"Selling anti-obesity drugs over the counter will perpetuate the myth that obesity can be fixed simply by popping a pill and could further undermine the efforts to promote healthy living, which is the only long term escape from obesity," he stated.
Current UK guidelines recommend using drug therapy in addition to making lifestyle changes if a patient has a body mass index greater than 30.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people with obesity, diabetes and depression or anxiety
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