This review is an evaluation of currently available medications used i
n the treatment of obesity and of the new areas in which agents are be
ing developed, For a variety of reasons, the currently available drugs
probably are not used effectively in treatment of obesity, as is sugg
ested in particular by the results of a long-term trial recently publi
shed, The use of drugs should be combined with an effective treatment
program including diet, exercise, and behavior therapy. If drugs are t
o be used for ''more than a few weeks'' (Food and Drug Administration
wording), an outline of the treatment plan and an informed consent by
the patient should be obtained, and the local licensing authority shou
ld be notified of the intent to use drugs for long-term treatment.