Patients in phase 2b trial of Arena's lorcaserin experience significant weight loss compared to placebo

By Lisa Kerner

Charlotte, N.C., June 12 - Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. said patients treated with lorcaserin had a statistically significant average weight loss and reductions in body mass index and waist and hip circumference compared to a placebo.

Additionally, trends or improvements were seen in fasting glucose and most lipid measures.

Patients in the study achieved a mean weight loss of 4.0, 5.7 and 7.9 pounds at daily doses of 10 mg, 15 mg and 20 mg (10 mg dosed twice daily), respectively, compared to 0.7 pounds for the placebo

group, according to a company news release.

A total of 469 male and female patients were enrolled in the randomized, double-blind, dose-ranging phase 2b clinical trial conducted at approximately 40 U.S. sites.

Lorcaserin hydrochloride stimulates the 5-HT2C serotonin receptor in the brain, which helps regulate satiety and influences metabolic rate.

Principal investigator Steven Smith presented the data from Arena's phase 2b clinical trial of lorcaserin hydrochloride (formerly APD356) for the treatment of obesity in a presentation at the 66th Annual Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association.

Arena is a San Diego-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focusing on the discovery, development and commercialization of small molecule drugs.

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