Anorectic Drugs: Drug Policy Making at the State Level

This study outlines the attempts of four states (Louisiana, Kansas, Wisconsin, and Michigan) to restrict anorectic prescriptions. The actions in these four states exemplify the various mechanisms used in regulating anorectics, ranging from educational efforts to legislative enactments. We examine the evidence used in promulgating these policies and review some of the current literature on the safety and efficacy of anorectics. Despite the existence of evidence demonstrating the safety and efficacy of anorectics, the states seem to be moving toward more severe restrictions, in contrast to the federal regulatory agencies.