On September 10 the FDA approved the extensively studied drug Contrave as a treatment for weight management when used in addition to a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity. The drug is approved for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater or adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Qsymia is a prescription medication designed to promote weight loss. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use by people who meet specific criteria. When combined with certain lifestyle changes, this medication can promote increased weight loss among obese or overweight individuals.

According to the National Institutes of Health, more than two-thirds of adults living in the United States are currently overweight and more than one-third of people are obese. Child obesity rates have also increased dramatically during recent years, with more than one-third of children and adolescents over the age of six classified as overweight or obese.

The causes of obesity are very complex. There are environmental and personal factors, habits, and physiological factors that increase body weight and fat. Lack of physical activity and sleep are also related to obesity. Treatment of obesity should be individualized for each patient. Some individuals are able to lose weight and through lifestyle change able to maintain the weight loss.