Treating Natural vs Synthetic Obesity
In today's clinical landscape, the rise in obesity rates is a complex issue influenced by a combination of natural factors and medically-induced weight gain, also known as iatrogenic obesity. Clinical data supports the significant impact of medications on weight gain, with some estimates suggesting that 10% to 25% of obesity cases may be medication-related. Medical providers and pharmacists, with their unique expertise in medication management, are in a prime position to help design and implement Medical Weight Loss programs, addressing the increased risks of complications such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and others.
Medications that can cause weight gain are diverse and include antipsychotics, steroids, diabetes medications, antidepressants, antihypertensives, oral contraceptives, and hypoglycemic agents. These medications can lead to weight gain through various mechanisms, including stimulating appetite, affecting metabolic rate, and influencing how the body stores and absorbs nutrients. For instance, antipsychotics like olanzapine and risperidone are known to increase appetite and lead to significant weight gain, while steroids can alter metabolism and fat distribution.
Iatrogenic obesity is often overlooked as a contributing factor to a patient's obesity. However, it's crucial for medical providers and pharmacists to recognize the role of medications in weight gain. By doing so, they can offer valuable guidance tailored to a patient's specific situation and address it through a comprehensive Medical Weight Loss program, thereby helping to mitigate the risks associated with obesity and improve overall patient outcomes.