Eisai, Arena announce availability of Belviq XR

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — Eisai and Arena Pharmaceuticals have announced the availability of Belviq XR (lorcaserin HCl) extended-release tablets. The new formulation offers a once-daily dosing option that the company says may help some patients achieve and maintain weight loss. 

 

"With more than 78 million adults who are obese in this country and obesity rates on the rise, there is an increased need for additional therapeutic options to help patients better manage their weight," said Caroline Apovian, M.D., Professor of Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. "A once-daily, extended-release tablet provides a treatment regimen that may help patients meet their weight loss goals."

 

The 20-mg tablet is approved for chronic weight management in patients with a body mass index of 30 mg/sq. m. or greater or a BMI of 27 mg/sq. m. with at least one weight-related medical condition alongside a  reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. 

 

"We are pleased that Belviq XR is now available to patients and may provide them with a new option that can be used as part of their weight management armamentarium," Arena president and CEO Amit Munshi said. “The launch of this new formulation is another example of Arena's success in supporting our collaborators.”

 

Eisai said it will offer a savings care for qualifying patients.