GQ has a story about a new class of weight loss drugs called incretins. One of them was originally developed as an anti-diabetic drug, but those taking it lost like 20% of body weight, as a side effect. After losing the weight, some people with type 2 diabetes no longer had the condition.
Now it looks like various of the incretins might be approved for weight loss prescription. Two drawbacks: they are designed to be taken essentially forever and they are EXPENSIVE (perhaps $2000 per month).
Medicare doesn't cover weight loss drugs. As a result many insurance plans don't either. Given the epidemic nature of obesity and the huge potential market, thought should be given to making these more affordable.
