Orlistat use in type 2 diabetes.
OBJECTIVE
To review the use of orlistat in type 2 diabetes.


METHODS
A MEDLINE search of the English-language literature (1990-August 2001) was performed using the key terms orlistat, obesity, glucose, and diabetes.


METHODS
All articles pertaining to orlistat were considered for inclusion, with emphasis placed on randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials.


RESULTS
In April 1999, orlistat was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of obesity. Of 13 randomized, placebo-controlled studies, only 2 reported specific data in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Both reported significant weight reduction and improved glycemic control over placebo.


CONCLUSIONS
Since weight loss is a difficult goal to achieve in patients with type 2 diabetes, orlistat can be a safe, effective addition to a multidisciplinary approach.
Snider
Laura J
LJ
Clinical Nutrition, Albany College of Pharmacy, Albany, NY, USA. marathon-patlaura@aol.com
Malone
Margaret
M
D019440:Anti-Obesity Agents / Q000378:metabolism / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin / Q000187:drug effects; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D007408:Intestinal Absorption; D007783:Lactones / Q000378:metabolism / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009765:Obesity; D000077403:Orlistat; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D019440:Anti-Obesity Agents; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin; D007783:Lactones; D000077403:Orlistat