Obesity

Hi Stix,

First, I think it is marvelous that your obese friend is trying to lose weight. As you probably are aware, obesity leads to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a myriad of other diseases. Some, consider obesity one of the most prevalent epidemics in America today.

With that said, one needs to consider the best way to lose weight. The latest research for teenagers, indicate that all diets are prone to failure, and that the best lifestyle change is to have healthy meals in a family setting. This may take awhile, but even with the drug you cite, Acomplia, it generally takes 2 years to attain a small weight loss. The manufacturers of Acomplia emphasize that dieting and exercise are essential to the over all effectiveness of weight loss.

Additionally, unless you truly are obese, the manufacturer reports this drug is not for you. This is important, as sometimes, particularly with teenagers, our body image is not based in reality.

Acomplia is also a relatively 'brand new drug' having only been placed on the market in late 2006 in England. It is a drug which acts on the central nervous system, which means it not only is a very potent drug, but can have very powerful side effects. It acts by decreasing your appetite (it also decreases the amount of pleasure in life, you may feel. Taking the joy out of living is never good, depression and possibly suicide are one of the main adverse effects of Acomplia).

As a new drug, most of the side effects will not be known for a while. Unless it was an emergency, or a terminal condition existed, I would not want to be the guinea pig to see what side effects, some of them potentially dangerous, may occur with a new drug.

I don't know the actual size of your friend, but perhaps her best step is to contact her family physician, or consult with a dietitian. Many strategies exist for incorporating a healthy diet and physical activity which are fun and enjoyable. Patience is also key; one did not become over weight over night, and losing the weight will also not occur suddenly.

Your friend is lucky to have you, as you will help her to sustain patience, and develop a healthier lifestyle.

Good luck to both of you, and let us know what happens.

Roxanne
RN,
"Retired from VA, on to New Ventures"