More News...

Yep...I guess it's a Two Post Thursday...

FDA approves drug to treat some obese, overweight adults

Supposedly, this drug triggers the part of the brain that allows you to eat less and feel fuller.  Here's the part that gets me...

In trials, 47% of patients without type 2 diabetes lost at least 5% of their body weight. By comparison, 23% of patients treated with placebo lost at least 5% of their weight. In people with type 2 diabetes, 38% of patients on Belviq lost at least 5% of their body weight compared to 16% on placebo, according to the FDA.

These results are not game changing!  I mean...there isn't a big difference between those who had the drug and those who had the placebo.  Also, it's not as effective for those with Type II Diabetess but whom the article states earlier that the drug is marketed for.  There was also no mention of this being available over the counter.  With rising costs of doctor's visits and prescription drugs, it seems a product like this would better serve the public if sold over the counter, especially since the benefits seem pretty minimal.  

It also says to use it in combination with a healthy diet and exercise.  Did the people in the trial do this?  If so, THAT could account for the weight loss more so than this pill!

Warning to consumers:  There is no quick fix to obesity.  5% of your excess weight is a great start but you're already on medication for Type II Diabetes, high cholesterol or blood pressure or heart disease.  Do you really want to add yet another pill to that mix?  

I'm not saying people shouldn't try it.  I'm obviously not one to judge medical intervention for obesity.  If you really think it would work for you, give it a shot but go in with eyes wide open.  The stats here aren't that encouraging.  

Have you noticed anything interesting in the news lately?