Researchers: Pill fights cravings for food, cigarettes

11:12 PM CDT on Monday, May 2, 2005

By JANET ST. JAMES / WFAA-TV

Overeating and smoking are the two leading causes of death in this country.

Now, researchers say one treatment could fight both of these deadly habits.

29-year-old Melanie Bickham is paying the health price for being overweight.

"Now that I'm diabetic, I've got to get this weight off," Bickham said. "I've got to get this sugar under control better than what I have, because I want to live."

She's hoping a little pill called Accomplia will help. It's much more than the latest diet drug; many experts predict it's one of the most significant advances ever for weight loss.

Even Baylor endocrinologist and researcher Dr. Priscilla Hollander is excited.

"It is the hottest thing," Hollander said. "Currently it appears to be the best thing we have."

Accomplia works in the appetite center of the brain, and blocks craving signals.

The added bonus is that it works on smoking too.

"Within 9 or 10 days, I was ready to quit," said former smoker Peter Vanooyen.

Vanooyen participated in a clinical trial that changed his life. He kicked the habit, and dropped 20 pounds effortlessly too.

Right now, the only place in North Texas to get Accomplia is through a clinical trial at Baylor. The only catch? Applicants must also have early diabetes.

Melanie Bickham wants badly to qualify, so she can lose weight and gain better health.

As part of the study, some people will get a placebo, but everyone will get diet counseling and related medical care for free.

To inquire about the Accomplia study, call 1-800-4BAYLOR.