Belviq is the brand name of lorcaserin. This is a drug that is intended to help obese people lose weight. It works by suppressing your appetite by activating your brain’s receptors for serotonin, which tell your body that you are satisfied. Tests that were submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) showed that Belviq was twice as effective as a placebo for helping those with Type 2 diabetes lose weight.
In 2009, Belviq was originally submitted to the FDA by Arena Pharmaceuticals for use by anyone. However, the FDA voted against its release, as there was little evidence of its effectiveness in weight loss, and there were concerns of finding tumors in test rats. In 2012, however, the drug was resubmitted for approval, but with certain conditions. Specifically, it was submitted with the restrictions that it was only to be used by:
People with a body mass index (BMI) over 30; OR
People with a BMI over 27 who also have a “comorbidity,” such as Type 2 diabetes or hypertension
The FDA approved the drug with these restrictions, and lorcaserin hit the market. In 2016, the extended-release of the drug was approved for the market.