Belviq and Belviq XR (lorcaserin) are no longer weight-loss treatment options in the United States. This page replaces JourneyLite’s historical 2012 approval announcement.
Why the FDA requested withdrawal
In February 2020, the FDA requested withdrawal after a required safety trial found a higher occurrence of cancer among participants taking lorcaserin. The agency concluded that the potential risk outweighed its benefits.
If you previously took Belviq
The FDA did not recommend special cancer screening solely because someone had taken lorcaserin. Continue standard screening recommended for your age and health history, and discuss personal concerns or symptoms with your clinician. Do not use leftover lorcaserin.
Discuss current treatment options
A past medication withdrawal does not mean every obesity medicine has the same risks. A treatment discussion should address your medical history, benefits, adverse effects, cost, and long-term follow-up. Explore JourneyLite’s medical weight-management information or contact your prescriber about an appropriate alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is Belviq another name for Qsymia?
No. Lorcaserin and Qsymia are different medications. The Belviq withdrawal should not be applied to another drug simply because both were discussed in 2012 approval news.
Sources and further reading
General education. Your JourneyLite care team can help adapt this information to your health history and treatment plan.