When should weight-loss medications be used?

Although medical treatments (for example Orlistat [Alli, Xenical]) are available, they should only be used by people who have health risks related to obesity. Doctors usually consider medications to be appropriate in patients with a BMI greater than 30 or in those with a BMI of greater than 27 who have other medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high blood cholesterol) that put them at risk for developing heart disease. It is not recommend that medications be used for cosmetic weight loss or to lose small amounts of weight. For more information on weight-loss medications, please refer to the Obesity article.

Why is weight loss important?

Maintenance of a healthy body weight is important for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being and preventing disease. Excess weight and obesity have been associated with an increased risk for numerous medical conditions, including

• heart disease,
• high blood pressure,
• stroke,
• diabetes,
• osteoarthritis,
• some types of cancers,
• sleep apnea,
• and elevated blood cholesterol levels.

It should be noted that reduction in weight for those who are overweight can make a major impact on the conditions listed above. Many overweight people also report improved mood, increased in self-esteem and motivation, and feeling healthier in general after they have lost weight.

 Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD