The USFDA has approved Setmelanotide , first-of-its-kind drug therapy for weight management in patients suffering from rare genetic disorders . It is indicated for weight loss and maintenance in patients six years and older, who have any of the following rare genetic conditions confirmed by genetic testing: Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) deficiency Proprotein subtilisin/kexin type 1 (PCSK1) deficiency Leptin receptor (LEPR) deficiency People suffering from the above conditions tend to become obese at a very young age due to genetic defects that affect the level of hunger, the ability to feel satiated, and energy metabolism. The drug setmelanotide activates regions of the brain that regulate appetite and fullness.
It also increases resting metabolism. This results in weight loss in obese patients. The drug has common side-effects like injection site reaction, skin hyperpigmentation,…
