PHARMACOLOGICAL MODULATORS OF APPETITE AND METABOLISM IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Obesity has become a massive social issue due to the increased prevalence. To put it into proper treatment, we must seek and create drugs, which are able to alter appetite and metabolism.  This paper aimed at evaluating the various pharmacological agents in an attempt to attain appetite regulation and metabolic routes in obese adults.  The experiment was done in 150 individuals with varying degrees of obesity and was done over a period of 12 weeks; it was a randomized controlled study.  The pharmacological agents such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, serotonin modulators and endocannabinoid inhibitors were tested with respect to the effect of these drugs on appetite, food intake, energy needs and weight loss.  We found that there were significant reduction of hunger and body weight in the treatment cohorts compared with the placebo.  GLP-1 receptor agonists resulted in an average weight loss of 10%, serotonin modulators led to a 7 per cent weight loss, and endocannabinoid inhibitors led to a 5 per cent weight loss.  In addition, metabolic assessments showed an increase in insulin sensitivity and a decrease in the levels of triglycerides in the treatment groups.  The paper located that pharmacological modulators, which influence the metabolism and the appetite, are potential methods to control obesity but that all of them do not act in the same way.  Further studies are required to determine the optimal dose, treatment duration and long-term safety.