A Double-Blind Evaluation of a Weight Reduction Programme in Private Practice

Abstract

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, 16-week study was conducted in a private practice to evaluate a 5-point regimen (diet, exercise, medication, motivation, patient-physician relationship) for short-term management of obesity. After 4 weeks of diet and excerise, patients were assigned to one of three treatment groups: continuous drug, intermittent drug (drug for 4 weeks, placebo for 4 weeks, drug for 4 weeks), and continuous placebo. The dosage for both drug (Tenuate, 25 mg) and placebo was 1 tablet three times daily.

At the end of 4 weeks of treatment, the difference between drug and placebo was statistically significant, in favour of drug. Statistical significance was lost at subsequent evaluations, but the difference between drug and placebo was considered clinically significant. Side-effects were reported by 5 patients in the continuous drug group, 5 in the intermittent group, and 4 in the placebo group. Clinically important changes in blood pressure were seen in 1 drug patient and 1 placebo patient.