Sibutramine, compared with placebo, led to substantial weight loss.
Sibutramine (Meridia) is effective for promoting weight loss in adults (Journal Watch Nov 25 2005). In a manufacturer-sponsored, multicenter randomized trial, researchers studied the efficacy of sibutramine, compared with placebo, in 498 adolescents (age range, 12–16) whose body-mass index was at least two units higher than the 95th percentile for their age and sex. All subjects received counseling and instruction on nutrition and physical activity.
In an intent-to-treat analysis at 12 months, the sibutramine group had lost a mean of 6.5 kg, whereas the placebo group had gained 1.9 kg. The sibutramine group also had a significant decrease in BMI, as well as significant improvements in levels of triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and insulin. Heart rate and blood pressure were higher in the sibutramine group than in the placebo group (mean difference in systolic and diastolic BP, 1.0 mm Hg and 1.7 mm Hg, respectively).
Comment: These results demonstrate the efficacy of sibutramine treatment for obesity in adolescents. However, an editorialist suggests that pharmacotherapy is not a panacea: In the long run, risks and costs likely would be higher than those associated with behavioral therapies. A multipronged approach involving parents, clinicians, schools, and communities might be the best way to help teens achieve and sustain weight control.
— Richard Saitz, MD, MPH, FACP, FASAM
Citation(s):
Berkowitz RI et al. Effects of sibutramine treatment in obese adolescents: A randomized trial. Ann Intern Med 2006 Jul 18; 145:81-90.