Efficacy of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Pharmacotherapy on Adolescent Obesity

Abstract

Adolescent obesity is an urgent health issue in the U.S., and is a precursor to many physiological and psychological conditions. There are different treatment options for adolescent obesity, and it is important for the general public to understand the benefits and risks associated with the particular treatments. This paper focuses on two treatment options for adolescent obesity, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT; type of psychological therapy) and Orlistat (medication for obesity), and discusses the effectiveness of each treatment for adolescent obesity. CBT focuses on the behaviors that are associated with the development and maintenance of obesity, while Orlistat targets the physiologic mechanisms of obesity. It appears that while both treatments may be effective for obesity, in general, CBT could help adolescents make lifestyle changes that are more beneficial in long-term mental and physical health. Additionally, when CBT is combined with Orlistat to initiate weight loss, which is then maintained by CBT alone, it could have the greater treatment effects.