500 million people are obese. More than 1/3 of American’s and the numbers are definitely on the upswing.  Obesity is a direct contributor to many life threatening conditions: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and stokes. It is the second most preventable cause of death in the USA.

The FDA is on the verge of for the first time since 1999 approving a weight loss drug. The drug is called Qnexa. It is a combination of 2 drugs phentermine and topiramate in an extended release capsule.

Studies showed 9.8-14.7 percent weight loss, but is that enough? 10% has been shown to help weight-related problems like diabetes, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, and even sleep apnea.

We all know it takes many tools to succeed in weight loss. There absolutely must be a lifetime commitment involved. Yes, I said LIFETIME…not for a party, a wedding, or a date. Regular exercise, stress reduction, diet training and adequate sleep are all necessary and essential.  Training your mind and understanding the science of the food you eat is the most important part of the picture. There can be no permanent success without re-educating yourself about what your body does with the food you eat.

Anyone who knows me understands I am the last person to suggest people using a crutch like a weight loss drug. I am probably one of the most militant, willful people you will ever come across. Then, I think of myself 25 years ago at 205 pounds….exercise? Never,   I could not walk around the corner without pain in my knees and my back and I had youth on my side.  I would say I lost the first 40 pounds before I could comfortably exercise. Now at 125 pounds I exercise at least 4 times a week with no problems.

So maybe we should think of this Qnexa as a tool, and tools can be a beneficial for people to get a head start and get some confidence in themselves and their new habits take repetition to stick. People need to draw on the power that comes from deciding their own fate. (That is my favorite tool I teach at Beyond-Biology.com)

Is this something you should consider asking your doctor for?

They have not finalized the recommendations yet but if your BMI is over 30% or over 27 with cardiovascular risk factors in your health history you may want to speak to your physician about Qnexa possibly being one of your tools to jumpstart your complete lifetime weight loss program.

Who should not take this drug?

Anyone who is pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant (it can increase birth defects). Those with pre-existing heart disease, severe osteoporosis, kidney stones and more. Please discuss all possible side effects with your Doctor or Pharmacist. There is no reason to add more health risks in addition to your issue with obesity.

 

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