Anti-Obesity Medications: Mechanisms of Action, Lifestyle Implications and Future Developments

The past 20 years have brought an exponential increase in our knowledge about the pathophysiology of metabolic disease states, including obesity. We now understand why lifestyle alone is not sufficient for many people to manage these disease states. With knowledge comes new treatment options, including new medications that are bringing life saving help and quality of life improvement to thousands of people living with obesity. In this session we provide an overview of currently approved anti-obesity medications (AOMs), the medications in the pipeline, mechanisms of action and dietary and lifestyle implications to complement AOMs and mitigate common side effects.

Planned with the Committee for Lifelong Learning

CPE Level: Level 2 (intermediate knowledge/experience)
CPEU: 1.0

Performance Indicators

• 10.4.4 Considers client/patient factors, nutritional impacts, indications, side effects, contraindications, benefits, risks, alternatives and foundational sciences when prescribing, recommending or administering nutrition-related drug therapy.
• 10.4.6 Monitors responses and effects of nutrition-related drugs and takes required action to make modifications or adjustments to treatment plans.
• 10.4.7 Evaluates, educates and counsels on the interrelationship and impact of pharmacotherapy on nutrients.

Learning Objectives

• Define the pathophysiology of obesity in order to identify appropriate treatment paths
• Describe the mechanisms of action of medications approved to treat obesity in order to effectively deliver nutrition and lifestyle interventions
• Explain the role of nutrition and lifestyle interventions as a complement to medication and to mitigate common side effects.

Moderator

• Julie Schwartz

Speakers

• Amanda Velazquez
• Amy von Sydow Green