Pharmacologic agents for the treatment of obesity.

Obesity guidelines state that pharmacologic therapy can be considered if a patient fails to lose 10 percent of their original body weight after 6 months of adhering to a low calorie diet, exercise, and behavior modification. Many published trials have shown sibutramine and orlistat to be effective for weight loss and weight maintenance when used with lifestyle modifications. However, few trials have studied the efficacy and safety of these medications in the elderly. This article provides a review of the FDA approved medications currently available for the treatment of obesity. Pertinent clinical trials are also reviewed and recommendations regarding the use of these agents in the elderly are discussed.