Obesity Medications and Their Impact on Cardiovascular Health: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Obesity is a major global issue linked to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). While lifestyle changes are the primary treatment, medications are often required for long-term weight management and reducing risk in patients with obesity. The cardiovascular effects of many obesity medications are still being studied. This review examines the cardiovascular impact of commonly prescribed obesity medications, focusing on their mechanisms, effectiveness, and safety. A review of the literature was conducted to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of these drugs, including their impact on major cardiovascular outcomes, cholesterol, blood pressure, and other heart-related factors. Some medications, like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), show cardiovascular benefits, while others like orlistat have a lesser effect. Medications such as naltrexone-bupropion and phentermine-topiramate offer weight loss but still require further review for their cardiovascular safety. Data on setmelanotide's long-term effects are limited. Obesity medications differ in their effects on cardiovascular health, with some offering more consistent benefits. More studies are needed to fully understand their long-term risks and benefits, but combining medication with lifestyle changes remains key to improving both weight and heart health.

Keywords: cardiovascular health; glp-1 receptor agonists; naltrexone-bupropion; obesity; orlistat; phentermine-topiramate; setmelanotide; weight management.