skip to main content

Severe obesity — SCE Endocrinology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyObesity and lipid disordersSevere obesitySCE Endocrinology

A 51-year-old man with BMI 42 kg/m2, obstructive sleep apnoea and hypertension asks about drug treatment for obesity after a structured lifestyle programme. HbA1c is 39 mmol/mol and eGFR is normal. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Consider tirzepatide alongside diet and physical activity within a specialist weight-management pathway

Consider tirzepatide alongside diet and physical activity within a specialist weight-management pathway is best because current obesity pharmacotherapy should sit within a structured pathway for eligible patients with severe obesity and comorbidity. The alternatives are less appropriate because orlistat alone may be less suitable for the intended specialist pathway; gliclazide is inappropriate without diabetes; surgery needs MDT assessment; thyroid hormone is harmful in euthyroidism. The SCE teaching point is to integrate the clinical pattern, biochemistry and context rather than treating an isolated result.

Reference: NICE NG246; NICE TA1026