Diet Write
by DietWrite, Diet.com's Diet and Fitness News Reporter

In a news release issued on Wednesday, The Food and Drug Administration announced that the new anti-obesity drug Belviq has been approved. It is the first time in over a decade that the Food and Drug administration has approved a prescription weight-loss drug.

The FDA approved the drug for adults who are obese or who are overweight with a medical complication such as having high blood pressure, high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes.

Belviq works by controlling and suppressing appetite. The drug activates brain receptors that help people feel full sooner. It is intended to be used in combination with a reduced calorie diet and exercise.

In 2010 the FDA chose not to clear Belviq due to concerns about the safety of the drug. However, new data submitted by the drug’s manufacturer, Arena Pharmaceuticals, swayed the FDA to vote for approval.

Common side effects of the drug include, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and back pain.