Table Of Contents
What is Belviq?
Belviq (Lorcaserin) is a prescription-only medication, manufactured by Eisai, Inc. and distributed by Arena Pharmaceuticals, which gained FDA approval in 2012. It was primarily prescribed for overweight and obese patients struggling to lose weight.
Its active ingredient, lorcaserin, facilitated weight loss in patients by altering signals in the brain that trigger appetite and hunger. These simple chemical changes created by Belviq use increased feelings of fullness among patients – convincing them to reduce caloric intake and consume much less than they normally would.
Related Article: Belviq (Lorcaserin) Lawsuit Update
Are There Different Types of Belviq?
Belviq was available to patients in two different forms:
- Belviq
- Belviq XR
The standard form of Belviq was a 10mg tablet that patients were to take twice a day, while Belviq XR was their extended-release version, a much higher dose than required only a single daily dose.
Related Article: Why Was Belviq Taken Off the Market?
What’s the Problem with Belviq Weight Loss Drugs
One of the conditions set in place by the FDA was that Arena Pharmaceuticals would have to run additional safety studies to ensure the drug wasn’t overly dangerous. These tests ran from 2013 to 2018 and consisted of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. In those five years, about 12,000 people participated in the trials.
The tests showed that patients taking Belviq were more often diagnosed with cancer than those who took a placebo. In fact, one additional person per 470 taking Belviq for at least a year was diagnosed with cancer.
After these trials, the FDA decided the risks of lorcaserin outweighed its benefits. In 2020, the FDA asked Eisai to withdraw Belviq, and they complied.
Related Article: What Types of Cancer Are Linked to Belviq?
Side Effects
Both Belviq and Belviq XR weight loss drugs have been linked to the following cancer risks:
- Colorectal Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Colon Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Liver cancer
- Cardiovascular Events
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Heart Valve Damage
- Serotonin Syndrome
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FAQs
What Evidence Is Needed to File a Belviq Lawsuit?
To file a Belviq lawsuit, evidence such as medical records, proof of Belviq prescription, cancer diagnosis, and expert medical testimony linking the cancer to Belviq usage is required. An experienced attorney can assist in gathering and presenting this evidence effectively.
What Are the Steps to Take if I Suspect Belviq Caused My Cancer?
If you suspect Belviq caused your cancer, seek medical advice, document your diagnosis, and consult a California Belviq attorney. They can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you seek appropriate compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Belviq Lawsuit?
The time limit to file a Belviq lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. It’s crucial to consult a California Belviq attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time frame.
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Texas Belviq Lawyers
The Dangerous Drug Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of state court lawyers that focus on the representation of Belviq patients. We are handling individual Belviq Lawsuits in California and nationwide and currently accepting new cancer diagnosis cases in all 50 states.
Belviq users who got cancer after taking Belviq or another weight loss drug should contact our law firm immediately to schedule a free consultation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a lawsuit against the drug manufacturer and our California Belviq attorneys can help.