The Belviq lawsuits started after the FDA recalled the drug and forced Eisai Inc., the manufacturer, to discontinue selling it. Various studies and clinical trials have linked this drug to the increased risk of developing cancer.
If you or someone in your family was prescribed Belviq, and they have since been diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to get in touch with an attorney right away. You may be able to be included in a Belviq cancer lawsuit.
Understanding More About the Belviq Lawsuit
The FDA released an announcement that Belviq, which is a popular weight-loss drug, would be pulled off the market in the U.S. in February 2020. This announcement was released after research showed the drug was linked to an increase in cancer rates. The FDA also recommended that anyone taking this medication should discontinue its use right away.
What Is Belviq?
Belviq or lorcaserin is a prescription drug used for weight loss. It is sold by the Tokyo-based company Eisai, Inc. It was approved for use in U.S. markets by the FDA in 2012.
Belviq works by altering the chemical signals in the brain that are responsible for your appetite. It also helps to increase feelings of fullness to help a patient lose weight. This drug is used as support for a diet and exercise program for adults who are dealing with weight-related medical issues, are obese, or are overweight.
Sometimes, Belviq can be used for treating diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure caused by obesity. While this is true, it will not treat or cure the underlying health condition.
Belviq vs. Belviq XR
It’s possible to get Belviq in two different forms. One is Belviq, which is a 10 mg tablet that you take twice daily. Belviq XR is a type of extended-release prescription medication that is taken once per day.
What Are the Adverse Reactions That May Occur When Taking Belviq?
While the FDA pulled the drug from shelves because of the increased cancer risks, there are other potential issues, as well. In fact, it can create several other side effects that may impact your health and well-being.
Some of the other side effects you may experience when taking Belviq to include:
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Can Belviq Impact Your Memory?
Studies have proven that some Belviq patients can experience memory loss depending on what dose they take and how long they take the medication. Also, if patients who have diabetes take the prescription drug, they may also experience issues like hypoglycemia, coughing, or back pain because of it.
Lorcaserin may also result in a slowed heartbeat or heart valve issues.
Belviq is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency. That’s because it poses the risk of dependency. If someone takes more than the prescribed dose, they may experience things like slowed thinking, euphoria, and hallucinations.
The medication may also have negative effects and interactions with other medications a person is taking.
What Types of Cancer Has Belviq Been Linked To?
According to information from the FDA, Belviq can cause several different types of cancers. Some of the ones seen include lung cancer, colon cancer, and pancreatic cancer. The potential links to brain cancer and breast cancer are being investigated.
Recommendations for Anyone Taking Belviq
The FDA released several recommendations for those who were taking Belviq and for healthcare professionals. The main recommendation is that they discontinue use immediately.
Patients can then speak with their doctor or health care provider to get a new drug for weight loss or weight management.
When disposing of the medication, be sure to follow these steps:
- Mix it with something like cat litter or dirt (anything unappealing). Never crush the pills.
- Put the mixture in something sealed like a bottle or bag.
- Throw the container in the trash.
- Remove your personal information from the medication.
Talk to an Attorney About Your Belviq Use to See if You Have Grounds for a Lawsuit
If you have been diagnosed with cancer after taking Belviq, then it may be possible to file a lawsuit against the drugmaker. It is a good idea to speak to an attorney to discuss your options. More research and testing are being done to determine if the drug is causing other adverse side effects, too. Because of this, it is smart to continue going to your doctor and being screened for cancer as they recommend. If you discover you have developed one of the issues listed here, then filing a lawsuit is within your rights and something that may help you recover the compensation needed for your losses.
