The effect of 1-yr sibutramine treatment on glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and serum lipid profiles in obese subjects.

The treatment of obesity is strongly recommended because many studies have shown it to be a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Although diet and exercise are valuable in the treatment of obesity, patient compliance is a major problem. Recently, several short- and long-term clinical studies have reported significant improvements in obesity treatment with sibutramine. This study aimed at demonstrating 1-yr outcome of sibutramine treatment on the lipid metabolism and glucose tolerance [with oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)] in obese patients. Seventy-two obese subjects (body mass index >30 kg/m2) were given sibutramine at a dose of 10 mg/day and a 1200 calorie diet for 12 months. Nine patients were withdrawn from the study (5 because of side effects, 2 because of ineffective therapy and 2 for unknown reasons). Sixty-three (6 male, 57 female) patients completed the study. Clinical and laboratory measurements were performed at the beginning, and after 3, 6 and 12 months of treatment. At the end of the study, obese subjects had lower body weights, waist-to-hip ratios, serum triglyceride levels, and areas under the curve for glucose and insulin (all p<0.001). Serum HDL cholesterol levels and the insulin sensitivity index were higher after treatment (both p<0.001). Serum total and LDL cholesterol levels did not change significantly during the study. Our results indicate that 1-yr treatment with sibutramine along with a low-calorie diet in obese patients significantly improves glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity and some lipid levels.