Drug therapy for clinically severe obesity has been disappointing. Obesity research has made significant strides in the past few years. We are beginning to learn about the possible genetic and hormone control of obesity in certain patients. However, research and testing is very slow. There are no drugs or therapy on the immediate horizon that will control the ravages of clinically severe obesity.
Gastric bypass is a surgical operation that results in marked reduction in the size of the stomach.
None of the stomach is actually removed. Gastric banding is similar, but in my experience and most experts, does not produce as durable long term weight loss. Gastric bypass attacks the problem of obesity by limiting the volume of food and, therefore, calories that can be ingested. Following the operation, the average patient will be able to eat only a few teaspoons of solid food before becoming full. Gastric bypass permits normal absorption of food, medicines and vitamins.