Study of fen-phen therapy and healthy diet for weight loss maintenance

Includes bibliographical references (pages [19]-21The purpose of the study was to determine if obese participants treated with fenfluramine and phentermine (fen-phen) therapy and healthy eating counseling had the benefit of weight loss and maintenance of loss after use of medications were stopped. Men and women aged 22 to 75 with a BMI of greater than 29 were studied. Data collected from 158 medical records in a midwest clinic consisted of dates of initiation and ending of treating, BMIs, drug dosages, blood pressure, blood lipids, number of dietitian visits, and adverse side effects experienced at each visit. Statistical analysis with the SPSS program was performed including frequencies, means and standard deviations, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients of change in BMIs and listed variable, and a Scheffe test of multiple comparisons of BMIs. Study results show the majority of participant, 91.3 %, lost weight while on the treatment; less than half (44.7 %) lost 10 % of starting BMI. Most participants (81 %) gained weight after treatment stopped. There was no correlation or changes in BMI to the serum lipids or blood pressure changes. Participant who achieve modest weight losses with pharmacological agents may be unable to maintain the lost weight after treatment. Weight cycling may be more damaging to health with more weight gain. Dietitians need to continue to be involved with their clients’ progress to promote successful weight loss maintenance. Participants need to continue to consume healthy foods and maintain physical activity.M.S. (Master of Science