“…A new drug that combats “the munchies” could provide a long-lasting solution to weight loss, say researchers.
The drug, known only as JD5037, increases sensitivity to a natural hormone in the body that suppresses appetite.
It acts by blocking the same brain pathways responsible for feelings of hunger after taking cannabis.
But, crucially, it does not penetrate far enough into the brain to cause psychiatric problems.
A similar anti-obesity drug, rimonabant, had to be withdrawn after it was linked to anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.
JD5037 affects the way the body reacts to leptin, a hormone that promotes feelings of satiety, or “fullness”.
Attempts to boost leptin levels have failed because the body becomes desensitised to the hormone and stops responding to it.
JD5037 does not increase levels of leptin – but enhances its effect…”
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New wonder drug to tackle obesity – Health News – Health & Families – The Independent.
