Lorcaserin Approved to Treat Obesity

Lorcaserin is an experimental medication aimed at helping overweight/obese people manage their body weight. It is a new chemical entity; scientists believe it functions as a selective serotonin 2C receptor agonist. The hypothalamus is a brain area believed to be in control of metabolism and appetite - the serotonin 2C receptor is expressed in the brain, including the hypothalamus. Arena Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, submitted the original NDA (New Drug Application) to the FDA in 2009. The Agency sent a CRL (Complete Response Letter), a year later. It was resubmitted at the end of 2011. The exclusive rights to sell and distribute lorcaserin in the USA (when/if FDA approved) is held by Eisai Inc. The European Medicines Agency accepted lorcaserin's marketing authorization application for filing in March this year. Arena Pharmaceuticals Shares Double in Value in One Day Arena Pharmaceuticals shares almost doubled in value today, according to the Wall Street Journal - they reached their highest point in 20 months. Arena does not yet know whether the FDA may ask it to provide post-market studies when/if lorcaserin is approved.