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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.
Australian Prescriber is unable to comment on individual cases or give second opinions.
Australian Prescriber Vol. 29 No. 2 2006
Obesity
Obesity is a big problem in Australia. Many people are overweight because they eat the wrong food and do not exercise enough. While changing to a healthier lifestyle can help people lose weight, some people also need medical treatment.
Orlistat is a medicine which reduces the amount of fat absorbed by the body. People taking orlistat must eat a low fat diet otherwise they will get diarrhoea.
Sibutramine makes people feel full so they eat less. As sibutramine can cause increases in blood pressure, patients taking it need regular check-ups.
These medicines do not work on their own. Patients also have to change their diet and exercise more. If they succeed in losing weight they will reduce their risk of heart disease and diabetes. A small weight loss of as little as 5 kg can be of great benefit.
