The use of lorcaserin in the management of obesity: a critical appraisal

Figures & data

Table 1 Drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for obesity treatment

Generic name	Mechanism of action	Usage	Common side effects
Orlistat	Lipase inhibitor	Long-term treatment (up to 12 months) for adults and children age 12 years and older	Gastrointestinal symptoms (cramping, diarrhea, oily spotting), reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
Diethylpropion	Appetite suppressant	Short-term treatment (up to 12 weeks) for adults	Precordial pain, elevation of blood pressure, blurred vision, dizziness, anxiety, depression, abdominal discomfort
Phentermine	Appetite suppressant	Short-term treatment (up to 12 weeks) for adults	Primary pulmonary hypertension and/or regurgitant cardiac valvular disease, dry mouth, unpleasant taste, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, headache, insomnia, shortness of breath, chest pain, overstimulation
Benzphetamine	Appetite suppressant	Short-term treatment (up to 12 weeks) for adults	Palpitation, tachycardia, elevation of blood pressure, overstimulation, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, sweating, headache, depression following withdrawal of the drug, dryness of the mouth, unpleasant taste, nausea, diarrhea
Phendimetrazine	Appetite suppressant	Short-term treatment (up to 12 weeks) for adults	Insomnia, hyperactivity, and blurred vision, increased blood pressure and heart rates, overstimulation