Novel therapeutics in rare genetic obesities: A narrative review

Abstract

The better understanding of the molecular causes of rare genetic obesities and its associated phenotype involving the hypothalamus allows today to consider innovative therapeutics focused on hunger control. Several new pharmacological molecules benefit patients with monogenic or syndromic obesity. They are likely to be among the treatment options for these patients in the coming years, helping clinicians and patients prevent rapid weight progression and eventually limit bariatric surgery procedures, which is less effective in these patients. Their positioning in the management of such patients will be needed to be well defined to develop precision medicine in genetic forms of obesity.

Keywords: Childhood obesity; Genetics; Hypothalamus; Melanocortins; Monogenic obesity.