- Text
FDA panel backs previously rejected Qnexa weight-loss pill
(Credit:
Image courtesy of Flickr user puuikibeach)
(AP) A panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration overwhelmingly backed approval for a highly anticipated anti-obesity pill from Vivus Inc., a drug which the FDA previously rejected due to safety concerns.
The FDA panel of outside physicians voted 20-2 in favor of the weight loss drug Qnexa, setting the stage for a potential comeback for a drug that has been plagued by side effects since it was first submitted to the agency in 2010.
A majority of panelists ultimately backed the drug due to its impressive weight loss results, with most patients reporting nearly 10 percent weight loss. But the group stressed the importance of confirming the drug's safety, particularly its effects on the heart, by tracking patients in a large, follow-up study. FDA's decision is expected in April.
- Skin cancer self-exam: What to look for (PHOTOS)
- Marvel creates "Blue Ear" superhero for deaf boy
- Christina Hendricks: Too Big for Hollywood?
- Pool access for the disabled causes controversy
- Sperm gene discovery may lead to male birth control
- Pizza Hut adds hot dog stuffed crust pizza in U.K.
- PICTURES: 15 Shocking Sexual Fetishes
- Study links calcium pills to heart attacks
- Poisoning risk from mini laundry detergent packs
- Salmonella dog food scare causes recall
- Scientists uncover how epilepsy diet works
- Time breastfeeding cover sparks debate
- Anti-Rape Condoms Fight World Cup Sex Assault
- Aimee Copeland breathes on her own, father says
- Life-size Barbie's shocking dimensions
- Sleep apnea masks may reduce heart risks
