Abstract
The pharmacists' medication knowledge adds a unique perspective to obesity management. When counseling individuals interested in weight loss, the pharmacist should perform a review of current medications. The pharmacist may identify medication-related causes for weight gain. Also, pharmacists can play a supportive role in helping consumers choose safe and appropriate weight-loss supplements. The Food and Drug Administration's final ruling on dietary supplements requires that companies adhere to strict guidelines for manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and storing of products, as well as identification of all ingredients, plus purity, strength, and composition. In addition, the pharmacist may refer patients to their physicians for diagnosis of an underlying medical disorder responsible for weight gain. As members of the health care team, pharmacists should embrace, participate in, and support lifestyle measures such as a healthy diet, portion control, and exercise for personal maintenance of a healthy weight.