09 Nov Study Finds Topiramate (Topamax) Effective for Adolescent Weight Loss
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. Panganiban
Jennifer Panganiban, MD
Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Director, Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Clinic
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Obesity now affects 1 in 5 children and adolescents in the United States with an estimated prevalence of 13.7 million. We know that this is not only an issue in the US but a worldwide epidemic. Lifestyle modification is the primary treatment of obesity, which can be successful but is limited. Off-label use of medications for weight loss in youth is increasing secondary to the limited availability of FDA approved medications for weight-loss.
MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?
Response: Topiramate prescribed for any indication, such as migraines, resulted in weight loss or BMI stabilization in children 2-21 years of age. This was more pronounced in ages 14-21 years of age if topiramate was prescribed specifically for weight-loss for 1-3 months.
MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?
Response: Topiramate is an effective weight loss medication and should be considered as an adjunct to lifestyle intervention, with the greatest effects noted when prescribed in adolescents.
MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?
Response: We recommend randomized controlled clinical trials examining the efficacy of Topiramate in childhood obesity.
MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Response: Additional analysis has showed that Topiramate may also be beneficial in obese children with Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with noted improvement in the liver enzyme, alanine aminotransferase (ALT).
Any disclosures?
None
Citation:
Weight-loss Effects of Topiramate in Youth With Obesity
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Last Updated on November 9, 2019 by Marie Benz MD FAAD