Relapse-Reducing Effects of Acarbose After Weight Reduction in Severely Obese Subjects

The aim of this study (published in 1985) was to investigate whether acarbose has a relapse-preventing effect after body-weight reductions. Twenty-four obese subjects weighing on average 116 kg showed a mean weight loss of 28 kg during conventional caloric restriction. When a new, steady weight level had been achieved, the subjects were randomized to group A or B, in a double-blind, crossover design. Group A obtained 1500 mg acarbose per day for 1 year. The daily drug intake was divided into doses of 200–500 mg, given with each meal or snack. After a 2-week period without medication, placebo was then given for a 2nd year. In group B the acarbose-placebo sequence was reversed.