Orlistat and Sibutramine in the management of metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Increased body fat mass is associated with a reduction in insulin sensitivity and the development of a myriad disorders characteristic of the metabolic syndrome. On the other hand, a reduction in the amount of body fat improves those alterations significantly. There are currently two medications approved for the management of excess weight and obesity: Orlistat and sibutramine. The purpose of this paper is to review the main pharmacological and clinical properties of both molecules, emphazising their impact on the components of metabolic syndrome.