Publication:

The clinical efficacy of orlistat in the treatment of obesity

Background The prevalence of obesity is gradually increasing worldwide and reaches an epidemic extent. Currently, treatment of obesity with pharmacological options has gained importance due to the frequent failure of lifestyle changes. Anti-obesity medications have an unfortunate history that make many clinicians uncomfortable with their prescription. In this study, we aimed to examine the effect of orlistat on weight loss and glycaemic parameters.

Methods Forty patients under orlistat treatment between November 2017 to October 2018 were recruited and their weight, body mass index (BMI), glucose, insulin, and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values were recorded before and after treatment. Patients aged >18 years with BMI≥40 kg/m2 were enrolled to the study while having the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, those with gastrointestinal diseases, who were pregnant or in lactation period, using drugs that have an effect on weight, and who did not come their follow-up after 12 weeks were excluded.

Results Thirty-four patients were female, 6 were male, and the mean age was 42.75±10.60 years. The mean height found as 161.10±8.98 cm. Before treatment, the mean weight was 120.62±16.56 kg, BMI was 46.43±4.61 kg/m2, and HOMA-IR was 5.84±3.58. After 12 weeks, it was observed that the mean weight decreased to 112.67±16.21 kg, BMI to 43.35±4.55 kg/m2, and HOMA-IR to 3.73±2.38. There was a statistically significant difference in these parameters compared to the pre-treatment values.

Conclusions Given the lack of non-surgical treatments, orlistat can provide significant benefits in the current clinical practice when combined with the appropriate diet.