Addition of orlistat to conventional treatment in adolescents with severe obesity

Update on Pediatric Anti-obesity Medications-Current Landscape and Approach to Prescribing

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the current medical therapies available for treatment of obesity in children and adolescents less than 18 years old in the United States and outline the approach to their use.

RECENT FINDINGS

Obesity is a chronic disease with increasing prevalence in children and adolescents in the United States. Over the past few years, more FDA-approved medical treatments for obesity, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have emerged for patients less than 18 years old. Furthermore, there are medications with weight loss effects that can be used off-label for obesity in pediatric patients. However, access to many of these medications is limited due to age restrictions, insurance coverage, and cost. Medical options are improving to provide treatment for obesity in pediatric populations. FDA and off-label medications should be considered when appropriate to treat children and adolescents with obesity. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy and long-term safety of FDA-approved and off-label medications for obesity treatment in pediatric patients.

A Narrative Review: Phentermine and Topiramate for the Treatment of Pediatric Obesity

The prevalence of pediatric obesity has increased exponentially over the past four decades. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released updated clinical practice guidelines highlighting the importance of identifying pediatric obesity as a chronic disease. The guidelines support consideration of concurrent treatment with intensive lifestyle interventions, obesity pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. The dramatic rise in pediatric obesity has spurred interest in utilizing obesity pharmacotherapy to support sustained weight reduction in pediatric cohorts, in the hopes of preventing the emergence of later-appearing, significant co-morbidities. Despite the enormous demand, the obstacles posed by performance of needed clinical trials in the pediatric population markedly limits available pharmacotherapy for the treatment of obesity in pediatrics. Currently, there are five medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in youth with obesity. In 2022, the phentermine/topiramate (PHEN/TPM), once-daily, controlled-release, combination product received FDA approval, for the indication of chronic weight management, in youth with obesity, ages 12 years and older. The objectives of this narrative review are to: (1) Review the mechanism of action of phentermine and topiramate, (2) Summarize the safety and efficacy data of topiramate and phentermine use as both monotherapies and in combination, and (3) Discuss clinical practice guidelines and clinical implications, for the use of these agents in youths with obesity.

Effect of Orlistat on anthropometrics and metabolic indices in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Childhood obesity is one of the main concerns of public health. Considering its long-term adverse health effect, various studies investigated the effect of drug therapy on anthropometric parameters and provided mixed results. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to determine the effect of Orlistat on anthropometrics and biochemical parameters in children and adolescents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched until September 2022. Experimental and semi-experimental studies were included if they evaluated the effect of Orlistat on obesity-related parameters in children and reported the before and after anthropometric values. A revised Cochrane risk-of-bias (Rob2) was used to evaluate the methodological quality. STATA software version 16.0 was used for the meta-analysis of the random-effect model.

RESULTS

Of 810 articles retrieved in the initial search, four experimental and two semi-experimental studies were selected for systematic review. The result of the meta-analysis of experimental studies indicated the significant effect of Orlistat on waist circumference (SMD: -0.27, 95% CI: -0.47, -0.07) and serum insulin level (SMD: -0.89, 95% CI: -1.52, 0.26). However, there were no significant effects of orlistat on body weight, body mass index, lipid profile, and serum glucose level.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis showed the significant effect of Orlistat on the reduction of waist circumference and insulin level in overweight and obese adolescents. However, due to the paucity of studies included in the meta-analysis, more prospective studies with longer duration and more sample sizes will be needed in this age group.

Targeted dietary approaches for the management of obesity and severe obesity in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

There is a need for a detailed understanding of effective dietary interventions for children with obesity. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of diets of varying energy content as a component of weight treatment in children and adolescents with obesity, severe obesity and obesity-related comorbidity. A systematic search of six databases, from 2000 to 2021, for intervention studies of targeted dietary treatment for obesity in children aged 2-18 years identified 125 studies. Dietary interventions were grouped according to diet type and energy target. Risk of bias was assessed using the Effective Public Healthcare Panacea Project assessment tool. Meta-analysis examined change in body mass index (BMI) at intervention end. A broad array of diet types were effective at reducing BMI in children with obesity. When dietary types were considered by energy target, a gradient effect was observed. Very-low energy diets were most effective with a - 4.40 kg/m² (n = 3; 95% CI -7.01 to -1.79). While dietary interventions with no specified energy target were ineffective, resulting in a BMI gain of +0.17 kg/m² (n = 22; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.40). Practical definitions of dietary energy target in the management of obesity and severe obesity are urgently required to ensure treatment seeking children have timely access to efficacious interventions.

Appraisal of Clinical Care Practices for Child Obesity Treatment. Part I: Interventions

The objective of this technical report is to provide clinicians with evidence-based, actionable information upon which to make assessment and treatment decisions for children and adolescents with obesity. In addition, this report will provide an evidence base to inform clinical practice guidelines for the management and treatment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. To this end, the goal of this report was to identify all relevant studies to answer 2 overarching key questions: (KQ1) "What are clinically based, effective treatments for obesity?" and (KQ2) "What is the risk of comorbidities among children with obesity?" See Appendix 1 for the conceptual framework and a priori key questions.

Efficacy of Weight Reduction on Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Opportunities to Improve Treatment Outcomes Through Pharmacotherapy

Obesity is the single greatest risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Without intervention, most pediatric patients with NAFLD continue to gain excessive weight, making early, effective weight loss intervention key for disease treatment and prevention of NAFLD progression. Unfortunately, outside of a closely monitored research setting, which is not representative of the real world, lifestyle modification success for weight loss in children is low. Bariatric surgery, though effective, is invasive and can worsen NAFLD postoperatively. Thus, there is an evolving and underutilized role for pharmacotherapy in children, both for weight reduction and NAFLD management. In this perspective article, we provide an overview of the efficacy of weight reduction on pediatric NAFLD treatment, discuss the pros and cons of currently approved pharmacotherapy options, as well as drugs commonly used off-label for weight reduction in children and adolescents. We also highlight gaps in, and opportunities for, streamlining obesity trials to include NAFLD assessment as a valuable, secondary, therapeutic outcome measure, which may aid drug repurposing. Finally, we describe the already available, and emerging, minimally-invasive biomarkers of NAFLD that could offer a safe and convenient alternative to liver biopsy in pediatric obesity and NAFLD trials.

Improving the assessment and management of obesity in UK children and adolescents: the PROMISE research programme including a RCT

Background

Five linked studies were undertaken to inform identified evidence gaps in the childhood obesity pathway.

Objectives

(1) To scope the impact of the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) (study A). (2) To develop a brief evidence-based electronic assessment and management tool (study B). (3) To develop evidence-based algorithms for identifying the risk of obesity comorbidities (study B). (4) To conduct an efficacy trial of the Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Programme (HELP) (study C). (5) To improve the prescribing of anti-obesity drugs in UK adolescents (study D). (6) To investigate the safety, outcomes and predictors of outcome of adolescent bariatric surgery in the UK (study E).

Methods

Five substudies – (1) a parental survey before and after feedback from the National Childhood Measurement Programme, (2) risk algorithm development and piloting of a new primary care management tool, (3) a randomised controlled trial of the Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Programme, (4) quantitative and qualitative studies of anti-obesity drug treatment in adolescents and (5) a prospective clinical audit and cost-effectiveness evaluation of adolescent bariatric surgery in one centre.

Results

Study A – before the National Childhood Measurement Programme feedback, three-quarters of parents of overweight and obese children did not recognise their child to be overweight. Eighty-seven per cent of parents found the National Childhood Measurement Programme feedback to be helpful. Feedback had positive effects on parental knowledge, perceptions and intentions. Study B – risk estimation models for cardiovascular and psychosocial comorbidities of obesity require further development. An online consultation tool for primary care practitioners is acceptable and feasible. Study C – the Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Programme, when delivered in the community by graduate mental health workers, showed no significant effect on body mass index at 6 months (primary outcome) when compared with enhanced usual care. Study D – anti-obesity drugs appear efficacious in meta-analysis, and their use has expanded rapidly in the last decade. However, the majority of prescriptions are rapidly discontinued after 1–3 months of treatment. Few young people described positive experiences of anti-obesity drugs. Prescribing was rarely compliant with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance. Study E – bariatric surgery appears safe, effective and highly cost-effective in adolescents in the NHS.

Future work and limitations

Work is needed to evaluate behaviour and body mass index change in the National Childhood Measurement Programme more accurately and improve primary care professionals’ understanding of the National Childhood Measurement Programme feedback, update and further evaluate the Computer-Assisted Treatment of CHildren (CATCH) tool, investigate delivery of weight management interventions to young people from deprived backgrounds and those with significant psychological distress and obtain longer-term data on anti-obesity drug use and bariatric surgery outcomes in adolescence.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN99840111.

Funding

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full inProgramme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 8, No. 3. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Obstructive sleep apnea in pediatric obesity and the effects of sleeve gastrectomy

The prevalence of severe pediatric obesity is rising and poses many adverse health risks. Children with obesity are at increased risk of several cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. They are also more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which increases the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic problems. In this review, we examine the relationship between OSA and obesity, improvements in OSA after non-surgical and surgical weight loss, and explore potential directions for future research.

Cardiometabolic risk in obese children

Obesity in childhood remains a significant and prevalent public health concern. Excess adiposity in youth is a marker of increased cardiometabolic risk (CMR) in adolescents and adults. Several longitudinal studies confirm the strong association of pediatric obesity with the persistence of adult obesity and the future development of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and increased risk of death. The economic and social impact of childhood obesity is further exacerbated by the early onset of the chronic disease burden in young adults during their peak productivity years. Furthermore, rising prevalence rates of severe obesity in youth from disadvantaged and/or minority backgrounds have prompted the creation of additional classification schemes for severe obesity to improve CMR stratification. Current guidelines focus on primary obesity prevention efforts, as well as screening for clustering of multiple CMR factors to target interventions. This review summarizes the scope of the pediatric obesity epidemic, the new severe obesity classification scheme, and examines the association of excess adiposity with cardiovascular and metabolic risk. We will also discuss potential questions for future investigation.

WITHDRAWN: Interventions for treating obesity in children

BACKGROUND

Child and adolescent obesity is increasingly prevalent, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of lifestyle, drug and surgical interventions for treating obesity in childhood.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL on The Cochrane Library Issue 2 2008, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, DARE and NHS EED. Searches were undertaken from 1985 to May 2008. References were checked. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of lifestyle (i.e. dietary, physical activity and/or behavioural therapy), drug and surgical interventions for treating obesity in children (mean age under 18 years) with or without the support of family members, with a minimum of six months follow up (three months for actual drug therapy). Interventions that specifically dealt with the treatment of eating disorders or type 2 diabetes, or included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data following the Cochrane Handbook. Where necessary authors were contacted for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 64 RCTs (5230 participants). Lifestyle interventions focused on physical activity and sedentary behaviour in 12 studies, diet in 6 studies, and 36 concentrated on behaviorally orientated treatment programs. Three types of drug interventions (metformin, orlistat and sibutramine) were found in 10 studies. No surgical intervention was eligible for inclusion. The studies included varied greatly in intervention design, outcome measurements and methodological quality.Meta-analyses indicated a reduction in overweight at 6 and 12 months follow up in: i) lifestyle interventions involving children; and ii) lifestyle interventions in adolescents with or without the addition of orlistat or sibutramine. A range of adverse effects was noted in drug RCTs.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While there is limited quality data to recommend one treatment program to be favoured over another, this review shows that combined behavioural lifestyle interventions compared to standard care or self-help can produce a significant and clinically meaningful reduction in overweight in children and adolescents. In obese adolescents, consideration should be given to the use of either orlistat or sibutramine, as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions, although this approach needs to be carefully weighed up against the potential for adverse effects. Furthermore, high quality research that considers psychosocial determinants for behaviour change, strategies to improve clinician-family interaction, and cost-effective programs for primary and community care is required.

Effects of obesity therapies on sleep disorders

Obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), and has also been linked to reductions in sleep quality and quantity. Weight loss has been shown to be an effective treatment for improving OSAS; however, there is a high degree of variability in improvements of OSAS in response to weight loss. There are three modalities of obesity therapies: 1) lifestyle modification, which includes changes in dietary intake and physical activity, along with behavioral interventions; 2) pharmacologic agents; and 3) bariatric surgery. Individuals have a highly variable response to the various obesity interventions, and maintenance of weight loss can be especially challenging. These factors influence the effect of weight loss on sleep disorders. There is still a need for large, well-controlled studies examining short- and long-term efficacy of weight loss modalities and their impact on long-term treatment of OSAS and other sleep parameters, particularly in youth. Nonetheless, given our current knowledge, weight reduction should always be encouraged for people coping with obesity, OSAS, and/or sleep disruptions and resources identified to assist patients in choosing a weight loss approach that will benefit them the most.

The safety of pharmacologic treatment for pediatric obesity

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric obesity is a serious public health concern. Five medications have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, when used as an adjunct to lifestyle modification. Orlistat is the only FDA-approved medication for pediatric patients aged 12 years and above.

AREAS COVERED

This paper summarizes safety and efficacy data from clinical trials of weight loss medications conducted among pediatric samples. Relevant studies were identified through searches in PubMed.

EXPERT OPINION

Orlistat, as an adjunct to lifestyle modification, results in modest weight losses and may be beneficial for some pediatric patients with obesity. However, gastrointestinal side effects are common and may limit use. In adults taking orlistat, rare but severe adverse events, including liver and renal events, have been reported. Recent pediatric pharmacokinetic studies of liraglutide have demonstrated similar safety and tolerability profiles as found in adults, with gastrointestinal disorders being the most common adverse events. Clinical trials are needed of liraglutide, as well as other medications for obesity, that systematically evaluate their risks and benefits in pediatric patients.

Treatment of Pediatric Obesity: An Umbrella Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Multiple interventions are available to reduce excess body weight in children. We appraised the quality of evidence supporting each intervention and assessed the effectiveness on different obesity-related outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search for systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials evaluating pediatric obesity interventions applied for ≥6 months. We assessed the quality of evidence for each intervention using GRADE (Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach.

RESULTS

From 16 systematic reviews, we identified 133 eligible randomized controlled trials. Physical activity interventions reduced systolic blood pressure and fasting glucose (low to moderate quality of evidence). Dietary interventions with low-carbohydrate diets had a similar effect to low-fat diets in terms of body mass index (BMI) reduction (moderate quality of evidence). Educational interventions reduced waist circumference, BMI, and diastolic blood pressure (low quality of evidence). Pharmacological interventions reduced BMI (metformin, sibutramine, orlistat) and waist circumference (sibutramine, orlistat) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (sibutramine) but also raised systolic and diastolic blood pressure (sibutramine). Surgical interventions (laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) resulted in the largest BMI reduction (moderate quality of evidence). Combined interventions consisting of dietary modification, physical activity, behavioral therapy, and education significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI, and triglycerides. Combined parent-child interventions and parent-only interventions had similar effects on BMI (low quality of evidence).

CONCLUSIONS

Several childhood obesity interventions are effective in improving metabolic and anthropometric measures. A comprehensive multicomponent intervention, however, appears to have the best overall outcomes.

Pediatric Obesity-Assessment, Treatment, and Prevention: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

COSPONSORING ASSOCIATIONS

The European Society of Endocrinology and the Pediatric Endocrine Society. This guideline was funded by the Endocrine Society.

OBJECTIVE

To formulate clinical practice guidelines for the assessment, treatment, and prevention of pediatric obesity.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants include an Endocrine Society-appointed Task Force of 6 experts, a methodologist, and a medical writer.

EVIDENCE

This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. The Task Force commissioned 2 systematic reviews and used the best available evidence from other published systematic reviews and individual studies.

CONSENSUS PROCESS

One group meeting, several conference calls, and e-mail communications enabled consensus. Endocrine Society committees and members and co-sponsoring organizations reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of this guideline.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric obesity remains an ongoing serious international health concern affecting ∼17% of US children and adolescents, threatening their adult health and longevity. Pediatric obesity has its basis in genetic susceptibilities influenced by a permissive environment starting in utero and extending through childhood and adolescence. Endocrine etiologies for obesity are rare and usually are accompanied by attenuated growth patterns. Pediatric comorbidities are common and long-term health complications often result; screening for comorbidities of obesity should be applied in a hierarchal, logical manner for early identification before more serious complications result. Genetic screening for rare syndromes is indicated only in the presence of specific historical or physical features. The psychological toll of pediatric obesity on the individual and family necessitates screening for mental health issues and counseling as indicated. The prevention of pediatric obesity by promoting healthful diet, activity, and environment should be a primary goal, as achieving effective, long-lasting results with lifestyle modification once obesity occurs is difficult. Although some behavioral and pharmacotherapy studies report modest success, additional research into accessible and effective methods for preventing and treating pediatric obesity is needed. The use of weight loss medications during childhood and adolescence should be restricted to clinical trials. Increasing evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of bariatric surgery in the most seriously affected mature teenagers who have failed lifestyle modification, but the use of surgery requires experienced teams with resources for long-term follow-up. Adolescents undergoing lifestyle therapy, medication regimens, or bariatric surgery for obesity will need cohesive planning to help them effectively transition to adult care, with continued necessary monitoring, support, and intervention. Transition programs for obesity are an uncharted area requiring further research for efficacy. Despite a significant increase in research on pediatric obesity since the initial publication of these guidelines 8 years ago, further study is needed of the genetic and biological factors that increase the risk of weight gain and influence the response to therapeutic interventions. Also needed are more studies to better understand the genetic and biological factors that cause an obese individual to manifest one comorbidity vs another or to be free of comorbidities. Furthermore, continued investigation into the most effective methods of preventing and treating obesity and into methods for changing environmental and economic factors that will lead to worldwide cultural changes in diet and activity should be priorities. Particular attention to determining ways to effect systemic changes in food environments and total daily mobility, as well as methods for sustaining healthy body mass index changes, is of importance.

Drug interventions for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Child and adolescent obesity has increased globally, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of drug interventions for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed (subsets not available on Ovid), LILACS as well as the trial registers ICTRP (WHO) and ClinicalTrials.gov. Searches were undertaken from inception to March 2016. We checked references and applied no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of pharmacological interventions for treating obesity (licensed and unlicensed for this indication) in children and adolescents (mean age under 18 years) with or without support of family members, with a minimum of three months' pharmacological intervention and six months' follow-up from baseline. We excluded interventions that specifically dealt with the treatment of eating disorders or type 2 diabetes, or included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity. In addition, we excluded trials which included growth hormone therapies and pregnant participants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data following standard Cochrane methodology. Where necessary we contacted authors for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 21 trials and identified eight ongoing trials. The included trials evaluated metformin (11 trials), sibutramine (six trials), orlistat (four trials), and one trial arm investigated the combination of metformin and fluoxetine. The ongoing trials evaluated metformin (four trials), topiramate (two trials) and exenatide (two trials). A total of 2484 people participated in the included trials, 1478 participants were randomised to drug intervention and 904 to comparator groups (91 participants took part in two cross-over trials; 11 participants not specified). Eighteen trials used a placebo in the comparator group. Two trials had a cross-over design while the remaining 19 trials were parallel RCTs. The length of the intervention period ranged from 12 weeks to 48 weeks, and the length of follow-up from baseline ranged from six months to 100 weeks.Trials generally had a low risk of bias for random sequence generation, allocation concealment and blinding (participants, personnel and assessors) for subjective and objective outcomes. We judged approximately half of the trials as having a high risk of bias in one or more domain such as selective reporting.The primary outcomes of this review were change in body mass index (BMI), change in weight and adverse events. All 21 trials measured these outcomes. The secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life (only one trial reported results showing no marked differences; very low certainty evidence), body fat distribution (measured in 18 trials), behaviour change (measured in six trials), participants' views of the intervention (not reported), morbidity associated with the intervention (measured in one orlistat trial only reporting more new gallstones following the intervention; very low certainty evidence), all-cause mortality (one suicide in the orlistat intervention group; low certainty evidence) and socioeconomic effects (not reported).Intervention versus comparator for mean difference (MD) in BMI change was -1.3 kg/m² (95% confidence interval (CI) -1.9 to -0.8; P < 0.00001; 16 trials; 1884 participants; low certainty evidence). When split by drug type, sibutramine, metformin and orlistat all showed reductions in BMI in favour of the intervention.Intervention versus comparator for change in weight showed a MD of -3.9 kg (95% CI -5.9 to -1.9; P < 0.00001; 11 trials; 1180 participants; low certainty evidence). As with BMI, when the trials were split by drug type, sibutramine, metformin and orlistat all showed reductions in weight in favour of the intervention.Five trials reported serious adverse events: 24/878 (2.7%) participants in the intervention groups versus 8/469 (1.7%) participants in the comparator groups (risk ratio (RR) 1.43, 95% CI 0.63 to 3.25; 1347 participants; low certainty evidence). A total 52/1043 (5.0%) participants in the intervention groups versus 17/621 (2.7%) in the comparator groups discontinued the trial because of adverse events (RR 1.45, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.52; 10 trials; 1664 participants; low certainty evidence). The most common adverse events in orlistat and metformin trials were gastrointestinal (such as diarrhoea, mild abdominal pain or discomfort, fatty stools). The most frequent adverse events in sibutramine trials included tachycardia, constipation and hypertension. The single fluoxetine trial reported dry mouth and loose stools. No trial investigated drug treatment for overweight children.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review is part of a series of associated Cochrane reviews on interventions for obese children and adolescents and has shown that pharmacological interventions (metformin, sibutramine, orlistat and fluoxetine) may have small effects in reduction in BMI and bodyweight in obese children and adolescents. However, many of these drugs are not licensed for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents, or have been withdrawn. Trials were generally of low quality with many having a short or no post-intervention follow-up period and high dropout rates (overall dropout of 25%). Future research should focus on conducting trials with sufficient power and long-term follow-up, to ensure the long-term effects of any pharmacological intervention are comprehensively assessed. Adverse events should be reported in a more standardised manner specifying amongst other things the number of participants experiencing at least one adverse event. The requirement of regulatory authorities (US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency) for trials of all new medications to be used in children and adolescents should drive an increase in the number of high quality trials.

State of the Art Review: Long-term Pharmacotherapy for Overweight and Obesity: A Review of Sibutramine, Orlistat, and Rimonabant

The objective of this review is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pharmacotherapy for long-term maintenance of weight loss in overweight and obese patients. Literature was obtained through a MEDLINE (1966 to July 2006) search and a bibliographic review of published articles. Key terms used included overweight, obesity, sibutramine, orlistat, and rimonabant. The search was further limited to clinical trials in humans and in the English language. Obesity is a chronic condition requiring long-term therapy. Two agents, sibutramine and orlistat, are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the long-term treatment of obesity. Rimonabant, marketed in Europe as Accomplia, has demonstrated efficacy for long term weight loss, however an Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted against its approval in June 2007 due to safety concerns (psychiatric effects). For clinically meaningful results, these agents must be used in conjunction with lifestyle therapy, including a hypocaloric diet, increased physical activity, and behavioral modification. This article reviews clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of sibutramine, orlistat, and rimonabant in reducing weight and examines other health benefits and risks associated with these agents.

Pharmacological Management of Obesity in Pediatric Patients

Objective: To review current evidence of pharmacological options for managing pediatric obesity and provide potential areas for future research. Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1966 to October 2014) was conducted using the following keywords: exenatide, liraglutide, lorcaserin, metformin, obesity, orlistat, pediatric, phentermine, pramlintide, topiramate, weight loss, and zonisamide. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Identified articles were evaluated for inclusion, with priority given to randomized controlled trials with orlistat, metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, topiramate, and zonisamide in human subjects and articles written in English. References were also reviewed for additional trials. Data Synthesis: Whereas lifestyle modification is considered first-line therapy for obese pediatric patients, severe obesity may benefit from pharmacotherapy. Orlistat is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication for pediatric obesity and reduced body mass index (BMI) by 0.5 to 4 kg/m2, but gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects may limit use. Metformin has demonstrated BMI reductions of 0.17 to 1.8 kg/m2, with mild GI adverse effects usually managed with dose titration. Exenatide reduced BMI by 1.1 to 1.7 kg/m2 and was well-tolerated with mostly transient or mild GI adverse effects. Topiramate and zonisamide reduced weight when used in the treatment of epilepsy. Future studies should examine efficacy and safety of pharmacological agents in addition to lifestyle modifications for pediatric obesity. Conclusions: Lifestyle interventions remain the treatment of choice in pediatric obesity, but concomitant pharmacotherapy may be beneficial in some patients. Orlistat should be considered as second-line therapy for pediatric obesity. Evidence suggests that other diabetes and antiepileptic medications may also provide weight-loss benefits, but safety should be further evaluated.

Current approaches to the management of pediatric overweight and obesity

OPINION STATEMENT

Family-based behavioral intervention has been demonstrated to be an effective and safe treatment for childhood obesity and should be considered a first-line treatment option. However, access to such intensive evidence-based treatment is limited and, currently, obesity care is dominated by high intensity behavioral treatment implemented in specialty clinics or less effective low intensity treatments implemented in primary care. However, capitalizing on the established and ongoing relationship between primary care providers and families, primary care providers have an invaluable role in early identification of overweight and obesity, and subsequent referral to an evidence-based treatment. Key aspects of effective treatment include: early intervention, moderate intensity to high intensity intervention of sufficient duration, multicomponent intervention targeting dietary modification, physical activity and behavioral strategies, family involvement and goals targeting family members, and follow-up contact during maintenance. The purpose of this review is to present the current empirically supported treatment options for pediatric obesity including primary care-based interventions and diagnostic tools, multicomponent behavioral intervention with a focus on family-based behavioral intervention, immersion treatment, and pharmacologic and surgical management.

An evolving scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of pediatric obesity

The 2013 Pennington Biomedical Research Center's Scientific Symposium focused on the treatment and management of pediatric obesity and was designed to (i) review recent scientific advances in the prevention, clinical treatment and management of pediatric obesity, (ii) integrate the latest published and unpublished findings and (iii) explore how these advances can be integrated into clinical and public health approaches. The symposium provided an overview of important new advances in the field, which led to several recommendations for incorporating the scientific evidence into practice. The science presented covered a range of topics related to pediatric obesity, including the role of genetic differences, epigenetic events influenced by in utero development, pre-pregnancy maternal obesity status, maternal nutrition and maternal weight gain on developmental programming of adiposity in offspring. Finally, the relative merits of a range of various behavioral approaches targeted at pediatric obesity were covered, together with the specific roles of pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery in pediatric populations. In summary, pediatric obesity is a very challenging problem that is unprecedented in evolutionary terms; one which has the capacity to negate many of the health benefits that have contributed to the increased longevity observed in the developed world.

Unplanned medication discontinuation as a potential pharmacovigilance signal: a nested young person cohort study

Background

Because of relatively small treatment numbers together with low adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting rates the timely identification of ADRs affecting children and young people is problematic. The primary objective of this study was to assess the utility of unplanned medication discontinuation as a signal for possible ADRs in children and young people.

Methods

Using orlistat as an exemplar, all orlistat prescriptions issued to patients up to 18 years of age together with patient characteristics, prescription duration, co-prescribed medicines and recorded clinical (Read) codes were identified from the Primary Care Informatics Unit database between 1st Jan 2006-30th Nov 2009. Binary logistic regression was used to assess association between characteristics and discontinuation.

Results

During the study period, 79 patients were prescribed orlistat (81% female, median age 17 years). Unplanned medication discontinuation rates for orlistat were 52% and 77% at 1 and 3-months. Almost 20% of patients were co-prescribed an anti-depressant. One month unplanned medication discontinuation was significantly lower in the least deprived group (SIMD 1–2 compared to SIMD 9–10 OR 0.09 (95% CI0.01 – 0.83)) and those co-prescribed at least one other medication. At 3 months, discontinuation was higher in young people (≥17 yr versus, OR 3.07 (95% CI1.03 – 9.14)). Read codes were recorded for digestive, respiratory and urinary symptoms around the time of discontinuation for 24% of patients. Urinary retention was reported for 7.6% of patients.

Conclusions

Identification of unplanned medication discontinuation using large primary care datasets may be a useful tool for pharmacovigilance signal generation and detection of potential ADRs in children and young people.

Treatment of obesity-related hypertension in children and adolescents

The obesity epidemic has become a common concern among pediatricians, with an estimated 32 % of US children and adolescents classified as overweight and 18 % as obese. Along with the increase in obesity, a growing body of evidence demonstrates that chronic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes, primary hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, once thought to be confined solely to adulthood, are commonly seen among the obese in childhood. Following a brief summary of the diagnosis and evaluation of hypertension in obese children and adolescents, this review will highlight recent research on the treatment of obesity-related hypertension. Pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment will be discussed. Additionally, current and emerging therapies for the primary treatment of obesity in children and adolescents, which have been gaining in popularity, will be reviewed.

Orlistat improves endothelial function in obese adolescents: a randomised trial

AIM

To investigate the effect of orlistat on endothelial function in obese adolescents.

METHODS

Single-blind 10-week controlled trial of 67 normolipidaemic obese adolescents randomised into three groups. Group 1 (diet alone), Group 2 (diet and orlistat), Group 3 (diet, orlistat and exercise). Endothelial function measured by flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery, anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, fasting blood lipids, insulin and glucose levels were recorded at baseline and at 10 weeks.

RESULTS

Sixty four subjects completed the study. Groups were comparable at baseline. FMD increased significantly with orlistat (Groups 2 and 3) but not in Group 1. Orlistat treatment resulted in significantly reduced bodyweight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were unchanged. Triglyceride and insulin levels were significantly reduced in all three groups. The reduction in cholesterols did not correlate with reductions in weight and BMI. A slight reduction of body fat, both with and without orlistat treatment, correlated with reduction in BMI after adjustment for baseline values. Blood pressure was unaltered by orlistat. Calorie intake was reduced with orlistat, and the decrease noted in % fat and increase in % carbohydrate was significant only in those taking orlistat. The addition of exercise (Group 3 compared with Group 2) altered no parameter.

CONCLUSIONS

Orlistat improves endothelial function and reduces bodyweight, BMI, fasting total and LDL-cholesterol in obese adolescents when combined with dietary control. Improvement in endothelial function if maintained could reflect long-term cardiovascular benefit.

Severe obesity in children and adolescents: identification, associated health risks, and treatment approaches: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association

Severe obesity afflicts between 4% and 6% of all youth in the United States, and the prevalence is increasing. Despite the serious immediate and long-term cardiovascular, metabolic, and other health consequences of severe pediatric obesity, current treatments are limited in effectiveness and lack widespread availability. Lifestyle modification/behavior-based treatment interventions in youth with severe obesity have demonstrated modest improvement in body mass index status, but participants have generally remained severely obese and often regained weight after the conclusion of the treatment programs. The role of medical management is minimal, because only 1 medication is currently approved for the treatment of obesity in adolescents. Bariatric surgery has generally been effective in reducing body mass index and improving cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors; however, reports of long-term outcomes are few, many youth with severe obesity do not qualify for surgery, and access is limited by lack of insurance coverage. To begin to address these challenges, the purposes of this scientific statement are to (1) provide justification for and recommend a standardized definition of severe obesity in children and adolescents; (2) raise awareness of this serious and growing problem by summarizing the current literature in this area in terms of the epidemiology and trends, associated health risks (immediate and long-term), and challenges and shortcomings of currently available treatment options; and (3) highlight areas in need of future research. Innovative behavior-based treatment, minimally invasive procedures, and medications currently under development all need to be evaluated for their efficacy and safety in this group of patients with high medical and psychosocial risks.

Pharmacological management of obese child

Childhood overweight and obesity are increasingly common management problems for clinicians. This review focuses on the pharmacological management of obesity in children. It considers historical treatments, the options currently available (principally orlistat and metformin) and some potential future therapeutic interventions. The short term psychological effect of obesity and longer term health impact are discussed. The clinical settings in which drug treatment may be appropriate, the importance of lifestyle interventions, and the evidence and clinical guidance that underpin their use are discussed.

Pharmacotherapy for childhood obesity: present and future prospects

Pediatric obesity is a serious medical condition associated with significant comorbidities during childhood and adulthood. Lifestyle modifications are essential for treating children with obesity, yet many have insufficient response to improve health with behavioral approaches alone. This review summarizes the relatively sparse data on pharmacotherapy for pediatric obesity and presents information on obesity medications in development. Most previously studied medications demonstrated, at best, modest effects on body weight and obesity-related conditions. It is to be hoped that the future will bring new drugs targeting specific obesity phenotypes that will allow clinicians to use etiology-specific, and therefore more effective, anti-obesity therapies.

Bariatric surgery in adolescents: what's the rationale? What's rational?

Rates of obesity in adolescents continue to rise, and available lifestyle and pharmacological interventions have had limited success in reducing excess weight and risk for comorbid health issues. However, ongoing health risks, psychosocial issues, and increased risk of mortality place these adolescents in jeopardy and warrant ongoing investigation for available treatments. Bariatric surgery for adults has had positive medical and psychological outcomes. However, bariatric surgery is a relatively new option for adolescents. Initial findings suggest positive results for excess weight loss and psychosocial improvements, but not without possible risks. Selection of appropriate candidates is essential in the process, specifically considering developmental maturity, family support, and resultant disease burden without surgery. Surgery is not a panacea for the obesity epidemic. Outcome studies are limited and long-term results are unknown, but for extremely obese adolescents, bariatric surgery is promising and should be considered a viable option for appropriate adolescent candidates.

Treatment of obesity in children and adolescents

The prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity continues to rise in the United States (US). Immediate health consequences are being observed, and long-term risks are mounting within the pediatric population, secondary to obesity. The hallmark of prevention and treatment of obesity in children and adolescents includes lifestyle modification (i.e., dietary modification, increased physical activity, and behavioral modifications). However, when intensive lifestyle modification is insufficient to reach weight loss goals, adjunctive pharmacotherapy is recommended. Among the group of weight-loss medications, orlistat is the only US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved prescription drug for the treatment of overweight and obese adolescents. Other medications, including metformin, need larger studies to establish their role in treatment. No single approach to management of pediatric obesity is the answer, given the complexity of the disorder and the many reasons for failure. Evidence of weight loss medications in addition to lifestyle modification supports short-term efficacy for treatment of obese children and adolescents, although long-term results remain unclear.

Assessment and management of obesity in childhood and adolescence

The increased prevalence of obesity in childhood and adolescence highlights the need for effective treatment approaches. Initial assessments of these patients should include taking a careful history (investigating comorbidities, family history and potentially modifiable behaviors) and physical examination with BMI plotted on a BMI-for-age chart. The degree of investigation is dependent on the patient's age and severity of obesity, the findings on history and physical examination, and associated familial risk factors. There are several broad principles of conventional management: management of comorbidities; family involvement; taking a developmentally appropriate approach; the use of a range of behavior change techniques; long-term dietary change; increased physical activity; and decreased sedentary behaviors. Orlistat can be useful as an adjunct to lifestyle changes in severely obese adolescents and metformin can be used in older children and adolescents with clinical insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery should be considered in those who are severely obese, with recognition of the need for management in centers with multidisciplinary weight management teams and for surgery to be performed in tertiary institutions experienced in bariatric surgery. Finally, given the high prevalence and chronic nature of obesity, coordinated models of care for health-service delivery for the management of pediatric obesity are needed.

Assessment and management of obesity in childhood and adolescence

The increased prevalence of obesity in childhood and adolescence highlights the need for effective treatment approaches. Initial assessments of these patients should include taking a careful history (investigating comorbidities, family history and potentially modifiable behaviors) and physical examination with BMI plotted on a BMI-for-age chart. The degree of investigation is dependent on the patient's age and severity of obesity, the findings on history and physical examination, and associated familial risk factors. There are several broad principles of conventional management: management of comorbidities; family involvement; taking a developmentally appropriate approach; the use of a range of behavior change techniques; long-term dietary change; increased physical activity; and decreased sedentary behaviors. Orlistat can be useful as an adjunct to lifestyle changes in severely obese adolescents and metformin can be used in older children and adolescents with clinical insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery should be considered in those who are severely obese, with recognition of the need for management in centers with multidisciplinary weight management teams and for surgery to be performed in tertiary institutions experienced in bariatric surgery. Finally, given the high prevalence and chronic nature of obesity, coordinated models of care for health-service delivery for the management of pediatric obesity are needed.

[Paediatric obesities: from childhood to adolescence]

Obesity, as in every western country, is currently the most prevalent chronic disease in childhood in Spain. This has led to obesity being one of the most common consultations in general paediatrics and, particularly, in paediatric endocrinology. Furthermore, obesity associated comorbidities are increasing in prevalence in children and adolescents. It is widely accepted that this increase in the prevalence of obesity is derived from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, associated to the lifestyle in western countries. However, there is increasing evidence of the role of individual and familial genetic background in the risk of developing obesity. The pathophysiological basis of the mechanisms responsible for the control of appetite and energy expenditure are being discovered on the basis of the increasing known cases of human monogenic, syndromic and endocrine obesity. Thus it is no longer appropriate to talk about obesity but rather about «obesities», as their pathophysiological bases differ and they require different diagnostic and management approaches. In 2011, the paediatrician must be aware of this issue and focus the clinical history and physical examination towards these specific clinical sign and symptoms, to better manage the available diagnostic and therapeutic resources when faced with a child with obesity.

Pharmacotherapy for obese adolescents

The pharmaceutical search to induce weight loss was precipitated by the United States Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 1959 formal approval of phentermine for short-term weight loss despite limited research supporting its assertions of weight loss. In addition to sympathomimetic amine products like phentermine, other medications considered in this article include herbal products, sibutramine, orlistat, metformin, and rimonabant. The use of pharmacotherapy for morbidly obese adolescents should be part of a comprehensive weight-loss program that recommends diet, exercise, and behavioral modification. Side effects and the possibility of major adverse effects should be remembered when considering use of these products.

Efficacy and safety of anti-obesity drugs in children and adolescents: systematic review and meta-analysis

We undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to summarize the efficacy of anti-obesity drugs in reducing BMI and improving health in children and adolescents. Data sources included Medline, Embase, the Cochrane controlled trials register and other registers of controlled trials, together with reference lists of identified articles. All data sources were searched from January 1996 to July 2008. We searched for double blind randomized placebo controlled trials of approved anti-obesity drugs used in children and adolescents (age < 20) with primary obesity for > or = 6 months. Six trials, 4 of sibutramine (total patients = 686) and 2 of orlistat (n = 573) met inclusion criteria. No trials of rimonabant were identified. Compared with placebo, sibutramine together with behavioural support reduced BMI by 2.20 kg/m(2) (95% CI: 1.57 to 2.83) and orlistat together with behavioural support reduced BMI by 0.83 kg/m(2) (95% CI 0.47 to 1.19). Sibutramine improved waist circumference, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, but raised systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse. Orlistat increased rates of gastrointestinal side-effects. We conclude that sibutramine in adolescents produces clinically meaningful reductions in BMI and waist circumference of approximately 0.63 SD, with improvements in cardiometabolic risk. Orlistat modestly reduces BMI (effect size approximately 0.24 SD) with a high prevalence of gastrointestinal adverse effects.

Rise in antiobesity drug prescribing for children and adolescents in the UK: a population-based study

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

* The antiobesity drugs sibutramine and orlistat are not licensed for use in children and adolescents in the UK or USA. * Clinical trials suggest antiobesity drugs are effective and well-tolerated in obese adolescents.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

* Prescribing of unlicensed antiobesity drugs in children and adolescents has increased significantly in the past 8 years. * Most prescribed antiobesity drugs in children and adolescents are rapidly discontinued before patients can see clinical benefit, suggesting they are poorly tolerated or poorly efficacious.

AIMS

The international childhood obesity epidemic has driven increased use of unlicensed antiobesity drugs, whose efficacy and safety are poorly studied in children and adolescents. We investigated the use of unlicensed antiobesity drugs (orlistat, sibutramine and rimonabant) in children and adolescents (0-18 years) in the UK.

METHODS

Population-based prescribing data from the UK General Practice Research Database between 1 January 1999 and 31 December 2006.

RESULTS

A total of 452 subjects received 1334 prescriptions during the study period. The annual prevalence of antiobesity drug prescriptions rose significantly from 0.006 per 1000 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0007, 0.0113] in 1999 to 0.091 per 1000 (95% CI 0.07, 0.11) in 2006, a 15-fold increase, with similar increases seen in both genders. The majority of prescriptions were made to those >or=14 years old, although 25 prescriptions were made for children <12 years old. Orlistat accounted for 78.4% of all prescriptions; only one patient was prescribed rimonabant. However, approximately 45% of the patients ceased orlistat and 25% ceased sibutramine after only 1 month. The estimated mean treatment durations for orlistat and sibutramine were 3 and 4 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Prescribing of unlicensed antiobesity drugs in children and adolescents has dramatically increased in the past 8 years. The majority are rapidly discontinued before patients can see weight benefit, suggesting they are poorly tolerated or poorly efficacious when used in the general population. Further research into the effectiveness and safety of antiobesity drugs in clinical populations of children and adolescents is needed.

Efficacy of weight loss drugs on obesity and cardiovascular risk factors in obese adolescents: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Weight loss drugs have been developed to reduce the comorbidities associated with excess weight. We conducted a meta-analysis of the efficacy of orlistat and sibutramine on weight, body mass index, waist circumference and cardiovascular risk factors in overweight adolescents. MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant articles using MESH terms and keywords. Studies were included if they had reported quantitative estimates and standard deviations of the association between each weight loss drug and weight, with information on at least one cardiovascular risk factor. A total of eight trials (three orlistat and five sibutramine) with information on 1391 individuals was included in the present analysis. The mean decrease in weight between the intervention and control groups was 5.25 kg (95% confidence interval: 3.03-7.48) after a minimum follow-up of 6 months. There was evidence of statistical heterogeneity between the studies (I(2) = 76%) that was no longer apparent after exclusion of trials of orlistat (mean weight decrease = 5.32 kg; I(2) = 38%). There was little evidence that treatment was associated with adverse effects on cardiovascular risk factors but this requires verification from future large trials with longer study follow-up.

Maintenance of weight loss in adolescents: current status and future directions

There is a dearth of research on the long-term efficacy and safety of treatments for adolescent obesity. This narrative review examined several approaches to treatment, focusing on long-term effectiveness data in adolescents, as well as relevant findings from studies of adults. The available research suggests that lifestyle modification has promise in obese adolescents, although it is not clear that any particular dietary or physical activity approach is more effective than another. Meal replacements are quite effective in adults and deserve further research in adolescents. Extending the length of treatment to teach weight loss maintenance skills is likely to improve long-term outcomes in adolescents, and delivering treatment via the Internet or telephone is a novel way of doing so. Treatment that combines lifestyle modification with the medication orlistat generally appears to be safe but only marginally superior to lifestyle modification alone. More research is needed on the management of adolescent obesity, which has been overlooked when compared with research on the treatment of obesity in children and adults.

Pharmacotherapy in pediatric obesity: current agents and future directions

Childhood obesity is emerging as a major public health threat, with adverse implications on the health of individuals and long-term costs to society. Family-based lifestyle interventions with behavioral modification, diet and exercise form the mainstay of treatment. Pharmacologic treatment may be considered in selected subjects, especially in the presence of significant and severe comorbidities, when lifestyle intervention has failed to achieve weight reduction. Orlistat and sibutramine are FDA-approved for treatment of pediatric obesity; metformin may be considered in the presence of clinically significant insulin resistance. Evidence is lacking on the appropriate duration of medical therapy and optimal combination with lifestyle intervention. Lack of coverage of medications by insurance and high out-of-pocket costs may be limiting factors to some families. Adverse effects necessitate careful monitoring and may lead to discontinuation of medication. Pharmacologic agents with novel mechanisms of action offer hope of improved efficacy, tolerability and safety.

Evaluation of a child for secondary causes of obesity and comorbidities

BACKGROUND

A 15-year-old boy who had been overweight since the age of 6 months was referred to an adolescent obesity clinic for further assessment of his comorbidities and management of his obesity. The patient had no history of developmental delay or abnormal growth velocity. He had previously tested negative for Prader-Willi syndrome and the melanocortin-4 receptor gene mutation. The patient had made numerous attempts at weight loss in the past, but any weight loss he achieved had been temporary. At presentation, the patient had a BMI of 52.3 kg/m(2), a waist circumference of 156 cm, blood pressure of 130/85 mmHg and severe acanthosis nigricans in the cervical and axillary skin folds.

INVESTIGATIONS

Measurement of height, weight, waist circumference and blood pressure; screening tests, including a fasting glucose test, 2 h glucose-tolerance test, measurements of blood lipids and liver function tests.

DIAGNOSIS

Morbid obesity, metabolic syndrome, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, impaired glucose tolerance and dyslipidemia.

MANAGEMENT

The patient was assigned to an extensive lifestyle-modification and behavior-modification program, with clinic-based follow-up every 4 weeks.

Interventions for treating obesity in children

BACKGROUND

Child and adolescent obesity is increasingly prevalent, and can be associated with significant short- and long-term health consequences.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of lifestyle, drug and surgical interventions for treating obesity in childhood.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL on The Cochrane Library Issue 2 2008, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, DARE and NHS EED. Searches were undertaken from 1985 to May 2008. References were checked. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of lifestyle (i.e. dietary, physical activity and/or behavioural therapy), drug and surgical interventions for treating obesity in children (mean age under 18 years) with or without the support of family members, with a minimum of six months follow up (three months for actual drug therapy). Interventions that specifically dealt with the treatment of eating disorders or type 2 diabetes, or included participants with a secondary or syndromic cause of obesity were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers independently assessed trial quality and extracted data following the Cochrane Handbook. Where necessary authors were contacted for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 64 RCTs (5230 participants). Lifestyle interventions focused on physical activity and sedentary behaviour in 12 studies, diet in 6 studies, and 36 concentrated on behaviorally orientated treatment programs. Three types of drug interventions (metformin, orlistat and sibutramine) were found in 10 studies. No surgical intervention was eligible for inclusion. The studies included varied greatly in intervention design, outcome measurements and methodological quality.Meta-analyses indicated a reduction in overweight at 6 and 12 months follow up in: i) lifestyle interventions involving children; and ii) lifestyle interventions in adolescents with or without the addition of orlistat or sibutramine. A range of adverse effects was noted in drug RCTs.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While there is limited quality data to recommend one treatment program to be favoured over another, this review shows that combined behavioural lifestyle interventions compared to standard care or self-help can produce a significant and clinically meaningful reduction in overweight in children and adolescents. In obese adolescents, consideration should be given to the use of either orlistat or sibutramine, as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions, although this approach needs to be carefully weighed up against the potential for adverse effects. Furthermore, high quality research that considers psychosocial determinants for behaviour change, strategies to improve clinician-family interaction, and cost-effective programs for primary and community care is required.