The United States Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved an anti-obesity drug for treatment of chronic weight problems. Physicians recommend that Belviq, or lorcaserin hydrochloride be combined with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise. The FDA specifically says the drug was approved for overweight or obese adults who have one or more medical conditions due to their weight, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
The drug works by activating a receptor in the brain that helps a person eat less and feel full, according to the FDA. “The results overall are quite modest,” said Dr. Melina Jampolis, a physician nutrition specialist and CNN’s diet and fitness expert. “But most experts agree that even a 5% weight loss has significant implications in terms of reducing the risk of obesity associated diseases including heart disease and diabetes.” The manufacturer of Belviq, Arena Pharmaceuticals, will be required to conduct six post marketing studies, including a long-term cardiovascular trial to assess the risk of stroke and heart attack.
