Review article: Pharmacologic management of obesity ‐ updates on approved medications, indications and risks

Summary Background Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, with >40% of the US population affected. Although traditionally managed by lifestyle modification, and less frequently by bariatric therapies, there are significant pharmacological advancements. Aims To conduct a narrative review of the neurohormonal and physiological understanding of weight gain and obesity, and the development, clinical testing, indications, expected clinical outcomes, and associated risks of current FDA‐approved and upcoming anti‐obesity medications (AOMs). Methods We conducted a comprehensive review in PubMed for articles on pathophysiology and complications of obesity, including terms ‘neurohormonal’, ‘obesity’, ‘incretin’, and ‘weight loss’. Next, we searched for clinical trial data of all FDA‐approved AOMs, including both the generic and trade names of orlistat, phentermine/topiramate, bupropion/naltrexone, liraglutide, and semaglutide. Additional searches were conducted for tirzepatide and retatrutide ‐ medications expecting regulatory approval. Searches included combinations of terms related to mechanism of action, indications, side effects, risks, and future directions. Results We reviewed the pathophysiology of obesity, including specific role of incretins and glucagon. Clinical data supporting the use of various FDA‐approved medications for weight loss are presented, including placebo‐controlled or, when available, head‐to‐head trials. Beneficial metabolic effects, including impact on liver disease, adverse effects and risks of medications are discussed, including altered gastrointestinal motility and risk for periprocedural aspiration. Conclusion AOMs have established efficacy and effectiveness for weight loss even beyond 52 weeks. Further pharmacological options, such as dual and triple incretins, are probable forthcoming additions to clinical practice for combating obesity and its metabolic consequences such as metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease.