An estimated, 69 percent of adults in the United States are considered overweight or obese. Obesity can lead to several long-term health concerns such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In 2012, it was estimated medical care costs of obesity were $190.2 billon.

Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30. First-line treatment of obesity is lifestyle modifications including diet, exercise, and behavior therapy. Pharmacotherapy for weight loss should be considered in patients with a BMI greater than 30 or in those with a BMI greater than 27 who are at significant cardiovascular risk and have failed at losing weight by dieting and exercising. Weight loss surgeries are reserved for patients with BMI greater than 40 who also have comorbidities.