Use of glp-1 analogs and derivatives administered peripherally in regulation of obesity

Abstract

This invention relates the use of glucagon-like peptides such as GLP-1, a GLP-1 analog, or a GLP-1 derivative in methods and compositions for reducing body weight.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from co-pending U.S. provisional application 60 / 030,213, filed Nov. 5, 1996. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), analogs and derivatives of GLP-1, in methods and compositions, in particular pharmaceutical formulations, that promote is weight-loss. [0003] Obesity, and especially upper body obesity, is the most common nutritional disorder in the over-nourished populations of the world. Numerous studies indicate that lowering body weight dramatically reduces risk for chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary heart disease, and musculoskeletal diseases. For example, various measures of obesity, including, simple body weight, waist-to-hip ratios, and mesenteric fat depot, are strongly correlated with risk for non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM), also known as type II diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association (1995) about 80% of NI...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent is about using GLP-1 compounds to reduce body weight and treat obesity. The methods and compositions described can be used for any person who needs to lose weight, including diabetic patients. The invention involves preparing a composition containing GLP-1 and administering it to a patient. The GLP-1 compounds can include GLP-1 analogs, derivatives, agonists, and pharmaceutically-acceptable salts. The dose administered will be effective in reducing body weight."

Problems solved by technology

Current methods for promoting weight loss are not completely satisfactory.

Failure to achieve weight loss by these methods may be due to genetic factors that cause increased appetite, a preference for high-fat foods, or a tendency for lipogenic metabolism.

Unfortunately, an estimated 33 billion dollars a year are spent on weight-loss measures that are largely futile.

Such statements discourage the use of GLP-1 as a composition (pharmaceutical agent) for reducing body weight, because central routes of administration, such as the ICV route, are not feasible for treating obesity in humans.