Overweight and obesity are the major cause of Type 2 (adult onset) diabetes. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the rate of type 2 diabetes has tripled in the last 30 years -- largely to the global obesity epidemic.

Since one of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes is obesity, many diabetics are extremely interested in weight loss drugs. Only two weight-loss drugs, Xenical and Meridia, currently are approved for long-term use in the United States.

But the FDA currently is considering approval of a third, Acomplia, which in clinical trials has not only promoted weight loss but has aided glycemic control in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients.

The other obesity drugs listed below are all intended for short-term use, and you should read the description of their side-effects carefully.