Medical / Pharmacotherapy Treatment

Our medical treatment arm is led Dr Carel Le Roux, a world expert in the field of obesity who has an interest in looking into the body mechanisms that lead to obesity.

Medications for obesity result in weight loss by helping people decrease their overall calorie intake. They work best when used regularly and in conjunction with daily exercise and a reduced calorie meal. There are mainly two classes of drugs. Those that act on the gut and decrease the absorption of fat in the diet, and those that act on the brain and reduce the sensation of hunger. It is recommended that these medications are prescribed to those who have a BMI greater than 30 with no co-morbidities or those who have a BMI greater than 27 and one or more co-morbidities such as heart disease or diabetes. It may also be prescribed to heavier patients who are awaiting surgery, not suited or unwilling for surgery.

All of these medications must be taken only after consultation with the doctor. Before starting any of these medications, the prescribing doctor must be made aware of all other current illnesses and medications.  None of these medications are currently licensed for use in pregnant and lactating women. It is best not to drink alcohol while taking these pills as alcoholic drinks such as beer, cider, wine or spirits are high in calories and are a common cause of weight gain.

The only anti-obesity drugs currently available for prescription in the UK is now :

• Orlistat (Xenecal)