Weight Loss Drugs and Diets: Evidence-Based Treatment and Counseling Pearls

About this course

The prevalence of obesity in the United States is increasing. Obesity can lead to serious health consequences such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular complications. Weight reduction can have a significant positive impact on a patient’s overall health status. However, many unsuccessfully struggle for years to attain and sustain a healthy weight, and conflicting information about the best way(s) to lose weight is readily available to the public. Healthcare professionals need to be able to provide evidence-based patient education on effective treatment and interventions for sustainable weight loss. Recent advances in obesity treatment, emerging research, and the widespread availability of misinformation about weight loss necessitate continuing education for healthcare professionals. This CE activity will provide in-depth coverage of evidence-based weight loss approaches that apply to pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and nurses. It will supply a review of the currently approved weight loss drugs and surgical procedures, including relevant clinical considerations. It will critique trending fad diets and unapproved weight loss drugs, emphasizing emerging research. Additionally, it will use a case study to provide practical patient education pearls.