Weight Management in Primary Care Validated by Evidence Based Algorithm

Abstract

To determine the efficacy of evidence based algorithms [EBA] applied to weight loss management in a primary setting, we examined four cross sectional correlational studies on weight loss and management in over 1,000 out‐patients. Patients encompassed a wide age spectrum [age 17 to 78 yrs], 70% females, Body Mass Index [BMI] 27–45 kg/m2. Patients with type II diabetes [NIDDM] were permitted if controlled with drugs or diet. Markers of metabolic syndrome [MS] including elevated blood pressure [BP], dyslipidemia [elevated triglycerides [TG], lowered HDL‐Cholesterol [HDL‐C], elevated fasting blood glucose [FBG], and central obesity [CO] were monitored for 52, 56, or 102 weeks using one of 4 separate drug or drug combinations [Lorcaserin, Phentermine/Topiramate, Naltrexone/Bupropion, Liraglutide]. Results indicated all groups lost weight [3.3 to 6.6 lbs] with corresponding decreases in waist circumference [−2.5 to 5.2 in], plasma TG [−4.8 to 13.3 mg/dl, Systolic [−0.7 to 2.8 mmHg.] and Diastolic BP [−0.8–7.9 mmHg] and FBG [−.0.8 to −7.9 mg/dl] with the greatest weight loss with the Phentermine/Topiramate combination after 52 to 102 weeks of observation. These results indicate that long term administration of weight loss medications can be a safe and effective regimen for weight control.Support or Funding InformationSupported by Institutional Resources of USAT and the Einstein Institute