Diabetes has been associated with obesity for many years. Therefore, it is not surprising that researchers have been looking at whether drugs prescribed for diabetes could be used as a weight loss product.

The latest incarnation waiting for approval by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is Liraglutide.

Scientists say that in trials of Liraglutide, diabetic participants’ body mass dropped dramatically by as much 10% after taking this medication.

Although this investigation followed those who are diabetic, the researchers believe it will also be suitable for non-diabetic individuals who are struggling to lose weight.

In fact, other research published in the UK doctor’s publication ‘The Lancet’ suggests non-diabetic people would benefit from taking this product.

In the USA, drug firm Novo Nordisk has submitted two files for approval to the FDA. However, the company also took an unusual step in applying to the Mexican equivalent of the FDA for approval.

How does the drug work?

Seemingly, Liraglutide mimics a hormone called GLP-1. This slows down the person’s digestive system but also stimulates the body’s insulin production.

Interestingly, Liraglutide is also known to have beneficial effects for a number of medical problems including sleep apnea and low blood pressure, and has even been used to prevent the development of diabetes.

Obesity is a massive problem in the USA and the industrial west. Even less-developed economies are beginning to show problems as they grow.

However, growing numbers of people are also relying on pills to help them lose weight rather than changing their lifestyle by eating healthily and exercise regularly.

With this in mind, whether it is really right for this new drug along with others to try and cut obesity rates is open to question.

Are weight-loss tablets really the answer?