A study published in The Lancet on 23 October investigates the effects of a new drug, tesofensine, on weight loss in obese patients. The drug has been shown to be safe in animal studies and has produced unintended weight loss in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
This new study suggests that tesofensine might have the ability to produce a level of weight loss that is twice that of currently approved drugs. However, these are preliminary findings and further studies into the safety and efficacy of the drug are now needed.
Reference:
Astrup A, Madsbad S, Breum L, et al. Effect of tesofensine on bodyweight loss, body composition, and quality of life in obese patients: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet, 2008; October 23 (published online).
Media roundup
New Zealand Herald: Researchers stumble across promising weight loss drug
Stuff: New weight loss hope
Washington Post: New diet pill doubles weight loss of other drugs
Further information
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