Impact of weight loss on serum leptin in obese postmenopausal women

A 6-month weight loss program consisting of energy restriction (1,200 kcal) in combination with phentermine hydrocholoride (Fastin) treatment evaluated changes in plasma leptin, insulin, and glucose concentrations in 39 obese post-menopausal women (body mass index 30-38 kg/m²). Values for these parameters were correlated with plasma lipids concentrations and body composition measurements previously reported for this population. Over 6 months, participants had a 9% weight loss (P < 0.001) and a 9% reduction in body mass index (P < 0.001) compared to baseline with a 20% reduction in total fat mass and 25.8% in trunk fat (P < 0.001). Plasma leptin levels were reduced by 27% (P < 0.001) at 3 months and by 32% (P < 0.001) at 6 months. In contrast, plasma glucose and insulin levels did not change over time. Significant positive correlations tions were found between changes in plasma leptin and changes in LDL cholesterol (r = 0.366), weight (r = 0.570) and trunk fat (r = 0.362) over 6 months indicating that reductions in leptin are associated with improved parameters in plasma lipids and body composition.