A Tale of Two Diseases

The association between obesity and type 2 diabetes has been recognized for decades — for example, Ethan Sims and colleagues coined the term "diabesity" in the 1970s. Yet, both conditions were treated separately, often at odds with each other, with an acceptance of the weight gain observed with some glucose-lowering agents. Drug discovery for the management of weight and glycemia were independent of each other, following different perceived mechanisms for appetite regulation and glycemic control. Furthermore, the use of weight-loss medications was affected by limited efficacy, side effects, and safety concerns. Except for bariatric surgery, weight loss for people with . . .