Belviq (lorcaserin hydrochloride), a weight loss pill manufactured by the Swiss pharmaceutical company Arena, was approved for use by the FDA Wednesday. It is the first such pill to get federal approval in more than a decade.
The drug works by activating the serotonin 2C receptor in the brain, which simulates the sensation of fullness after eating small amounts of food.
"Obesity threatens the overall well being of patients and is a major public health concern," said an FDA rep.
"The approval of this drug, used responsibly in combination with a healthy diet and lifestyle, provides a treatment option for Americans who are obese or are overweight and have at least one weight-related comorbid condition."
In non-diabetic patients, Belviq may cause headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth and constipation. In diabetic patients, side effects include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), headache, back pain, cough and fatigue.
For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
Health News
June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.