How Do Leptin Analogs Work?

Leptin analogs are recombinant forms of human hormone leptin which are used to treat congenital or acquired generalized lipodystrophy (abnormality of fat storage in the body). Leptin analogs are given as replacement therapy to patients with leptin deficiency. 

Leptin hormone is also called satiety (the state of being full) hormone. Leptin hormone is released by fat cells present in the adipose (fat) tissue which signals the hypothalamus in the brain about the status of energy stores in the body. This hormone maintains body weight by regulating food intake and energy expenditure. Leptin levels increase with increased fat deposits and decrease as the fat decreases in the body. Increased leptin levels inhibit hunger and decreased levels increase appetite. Congenital leptin deficiency or decreased leptin levels due to loss of adipose tissue lead to increased appetite, hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides in the blood), deposition of fat in the liver and muscles, and metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, diabetes, and ovarian dysfunction. 

Metreleptin is a recombinant analog of leptin approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of generalized forms of lipodystrophy. Metreleptin binds to and activates human leptin receptor (ObR), which belongs to the Class I cytokine family of receptors that signals through the JAK/STAT transduction pathway.

Leptin analogs are administered as subcutaneous injections to treat congenital or acquired generalized lipodystrophy.

Side effects of leptin analogs include:

• Headache
• Hypoglycemia
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Arthralgia
• Dizziness
• Ear infection
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Ovarian cyst 
• Upper respiratory tract infection 
• Anemia 
• Back pain 
• Diarrhea 
• Paresthesia (tingling or pins and needles sensation caused by pressure on or damage to peripheral nerves)
• Proteinuria (excretion of proteins in the urine)
• Fever 
• Antibodies with neutralizing activity 
• Injection site reactions 
• Anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reactions)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of leptin analogs include:

• Metreleptin
• Myalept