Pramlintide in the Management of Obesity

Obesity is a common problem that can lead to numerous comorbid conditions, including Type 2 diabetes. Currently, there are few pharmacologic options available to help obese patients lose weight. Pramlintide is an injectable, amylin analogue that is indicated in patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes for use in conjunction with insulin to improve glycemic control. In addition to helping patients decrease hemoglobin A1c levels, pramlintide has also been shown to minimize weight gain, especially in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Studies have been conducted in various patient types, including those patients without diabetes, and the drug tends to have a positive effect on weight loss. It appears that the drug is well tolerated in patients without diabetes; however, current studies have been conducted in small patient populations. Additional research needs to be carried out to determine if the drug is a viable option for obese patients who have failed to respond to other weight loss products.