A common weight management drug has made recent headlines as researchers are linking the appetite-suppressant pill to an increased risk of cancer.
Belviq, the brand name for generic lorcaserin, is a serotonin receptor agonist that is primarily used for weight loss, targeting chemicals in the brain to influence a person’s hunger and/or appetite. Manufactured by New Jersey-based pharmaceutical company, Eisai Inc., Belviq was first FDA-approved for consumer use in 2012.
Early this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a drug safety alert announcing a potential connection between Belviq and the risk of cancer. In February, the FDA released a follow-up announcement issuing an official request for Eisai Inc to voluntarily recall their Belviq and Belviq XR drugs.
Though the pharmaceutical company complied with the FDA’s request, there are still factors consumers should be concerned about. It is important to know that recalling these drugs does not reverse the potential harm caused to people who have taken Belviq or Belviq XR.
Those who have taken these drugs are beginning to file drug claims against Eisai Inc. for failing to warn doctors and consumers of the serious risks associated with the drugs.
- How is Belviq connected to a risk of cancer?
Through the research of a five-year study performed by the FDA, it was discovered that there was an increased risk for cancer among people who had taken the drug. The primary concern in conducting this study was to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of Belviq, as many weight loss drugs are known to have negative side effects on the heart. The FDA has not concluded whether Belviq can directly cause cancer, but research has indicated that those who have consumed the drug could be at a higher risk.
An investigation by the FDA is currently underway into how Belviq/Belviq XR increases the risk of developing cancer.
- What are the side effects of Belviq?
Depending on the person, side effect reactions can be mild to moderate to severe. Consumers could experience headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, anxiety, blurred vision, toothache, constipation, fatigue, muscle pain and difficulty with sleep.
More serious side effects can include confusion, hallucinations, breathing difficulties, feeling ‘high’, muscle spasms, fever, nausea, thoughts of harming yourself, dissociation, enlarged breasts in males and difficulty remembering or paying attention.
- What kind of cancer is linked to Belviq products?
The primary cancers currently linked to Belviq are pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer.
- What should you do if you currently take Belviq products?
The FDA is recommending patients to stop taking the drug and dispose of their remaining supply. However, it is advised that patients do not stop taking the drug on their own. Talk to your doctor about how to safely taper off of your current dose.
What can you do now?
Many folks affected by the drug are filing against the drug manufacturer for various lawsuits, including personal injury lawsuits, wrongful death lawsuits, and class action lawsuits.
Find A Knowledgeable Belviq Attorney
Tiano O’Dell, PLLC is a firm that has extensive experience with dangerous drugs, product liability, wrongful death, and class action lawsuits. Our Belviq attorneys are well-versed in how Belviq works, side-effects, and know-how to hold the manufacturer liable for their negligence.
Though damages due to these drugs can never be erased, we’ve successfully represented thousands of clients affected by dangerous drugs and helped them receive fair compensation.
Get the conversation started here if you or a loved one have consumed Belviq and believe harm has been done.