LONG-TERM USE OF APPETITE-SUPPRESSANT MEDICATION - RATIONALE AND RECOMMENDATIONS

We propose a change in the use of "appetite suppressant" medication in the treatment of obesity: use it on a long-term basis or not at all. This proposal is based on the theory that "appetite suppressant" medication acts primarily by lowering the regulated level of body weight. We review the concept of the regulation of body weight and present evidence that body weight is regulated in animals of normal weight and in some obese animals. We show that the concept of the regulation of body weight also applies to variations of body weight produced by endogenous factors, such as those related to hibernation, as well as by experimental interventions, such as brain lesions and "appetite suppressant" medication. Evidence of body weight regulation in normal weight and obese humans is presented and clinical significance discussed. We conclude with a discussion of a new role for "appetite suppressant" medication in the treatment of obesity.