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Review
. 2021 Jun;10(2):81-89.
doi: 10.1007/s13679-021-00425-1. Epub 2021 Jan 25.

Use of Weight Loss Medications in Patients after Bariatric Surgery

Ilana P Redmond  1 , Alpana P Shukla  2 , Louis J Aronne  2
Affiliations
Review

Use of Weight Loss Medications in Patients after Bariatric Surgery

Ilana P Redmond et al. Curr Obes Rep. 2021 Jun.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Weight regain after bariatric surgery is unfortunately a common occurrence. In this article, we have reviewed the data addressing this clinical problem focusing on pharmacological management of weight regain.

Recent findings: Data from several small, non-randomized, retrospective, and prospective studies provide evidence that a number of pharmacological options, both FDA approved and off-label, are effective in mitigating and managing weight regain after bariatric surgery. There is a suggestion that the optimal time to initiate weight loss medications may be at the time of weight plateau, rather than after weight regain. Adjuvant pharmacotherapy can help treat weight regain after bariatric surgery. Future studies should investigate the optimal timing for starting weight loss medications, as well as the best medication or combinations of medicines, for managing postoperative weight regain in different patient groups, including those who have undergone different types of bariatric surgeries.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Obesity; Pharmacotherapy; Weight loss; Weight regain.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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