Updates in pharmacotherapy of obesity.

Obesity is now recognized as a chronic, progressive condition requiring early intervention and long-term management to achieve health benefits and improve metabolic risk factors. The main objective of obesity pharmacotherapy is weight loss and weight loss maintenance. There is increasing acceptance of anti-obesity medications as an adjunct to lifestyle modifications and/or surgery. In recent years there has been an evolution in management approach and pharmacologic options for treatment. As a result, there is increased focus on the efficacy and safety of these agents. We provide a historical perspective, review of recent studies on anti-obesity medication outcomes showing efficacy, potential side effects and promising therapies in development.