Belviq (lorcaserin) withdrawal and current alternatives
Belviq (lorcaserin) withdrawal and current alternatives
Why Belviq was withdrawn from the U.S. market and which current obesity treatments may be considered instead.
Overview
Belviq and Belviq XR contained lorcaserin. In 2020, FDA requested withdrawal from the U.S. market after a required safety trial showed an increased occurrence of cancer and the agency concluded that risks outweighed benefits. It should not be prescribed or purchased online.
Key points
Withdrawn drug
Belviq is not a current U.S. weight-loss option.
Do not buy online
Supplements or products containing hidden lorcaserin are dangerous and illegal.
No special screening
FDA did not recommend special cancer screening solely because of prior lorcaserin use; follow routine recommendations and clinician advice.
Current options
FDA-approved injections and pills now provide multiple alternatives.
Clinical guidance
Current options may include Wegovy injection/tablets, Wegovy HD, Zepbound, Foundayo, Saxenda, Qsymia, Contrave and orlistat. Selection depends on indication, contraindications, previous response, pregnancy plans and access.
How W8MD can help
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa serves greater New York City and New Jersey through its Brooklyn office and the greater Philadelphia region through its Northeast Philadelphia office. W8MD can review prior Belviq exposure and choose a current, lawful treatment based on medical history. Patients should bring old bottles or online products for identification rather than using them.
More information: Read Lorcaserin at WikiMD. Regional patients may also visit NYC Medical Weight Loss or Philadelphia Medical Weight Loss.
W8MD patient experiences
Patients choose W8MD for local, physician-supervised care and ongoing access to a clinical team. Review current, consented W8MD success stories and testimonials. Testimonials describe individual experiences; results vary with health, treatment, adherence and follow-up and are not guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
Can I restart leftover Belviq?
No.
Do I need cancer testing because I used it?
FDA advised routine screening, not special screening solely for exposure; discuss personal concerns with your clinician.
Are there newer pills?
Yes, including FDA-approved Foundayo and Wegovy tablets, plus established oral options.
Evidence and authoritative sources
Contact W8MD
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & MedSpa provides physician-supervised care in Brooklyn, New York and Northeast Philadelphia. Telehealth may be available for eligible patients based on location and applicable requirements.
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