Analysis of Weight Loss and Adverse Events in Overweight, and Obese Patients on Korean Medicine Weight Management Program with Face-to-Face Treatment and Non-Face-to-Face Treatment: A Retrospective Chart Review

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to analyze the weight loss and the adverse events of overweight and obese adults on weight loss program with face-to-face treatment (FTF) and non-face-to-face treatment (NFTF) in 6 Korean Medicine obesity clinics.Methods: From March 2nd to March 10th, 2021, we collected data with a retrospective way from overweight and obese adults (body mass index, BMI≥23 kg/m<sup>2</sup>) who registered for a 12-week <i>Gamitaeeumjowi-tang</i> prescription program. After matching initial information of the FTF group and the NFTF group using propensity matching score, weight loss and BMI change were analyzed, and adverse events were evaluated in terms of causality, severity and system-organ classes.Results: Weight and BMI change from baseline to 12 weeks was -7.98±3.09kg (10.41±3.57%), -3.03±1.14kg/m<sup>2</sup> and -7.30±3.11kg (9.59±3.45%), -2.76±1.15kg/m<sup>2</sup> for FTF group and NFTF group, respectively. Body weight and BMI significantly decreased before and after treatment in both groups, and there was no significant difference in weight loss and BMI change between the two groups. No serious adverse events were reported.Conclusions: This study showed the potential that NFTF weight management treatment could be a good alternative way to FTF weight management treatment without serious adverse events.