Many people worry about their body weight. Losing weight is not an easy task. Some people try to lose weight by controlling their diet and exercising. However, there are also medications that help in losing weight. Today we are going to talk about one such drug, Lorcaserin. It is sometimes known by the brand name Belviq XR. Before we learn about this drug, let us understand its advantages, disadvantages, and things to be careful about while using it.
What is this medicine used for?
Simply put, this is a drug that helps you lose weight and maintain it. It works by controlling certain chemicals in the brain, reducing hunger, and making you feel full after eating a small amount.
But this is not magic. When using this medicine, you should definitely use it in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and an exercise program that suits you. Do not expect to lose weight with this medicine alone. Also, doctors may recommend it for other purposes.
What should I tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about any of the following conditions, especially:
| Situation or problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart disease | If you have heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or other heart-related problems. |
| Diabetes | If you are diabetic, tell them about it and the medications you take. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have any kidney or liver disease. |
| Mental health problems | If you or someone in your family has had suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempted suicide. |
| Blood diseases | If you have diseases such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia. |
| Men's health problems | If you have a history of any deformities of the penis, Peyronie's disease, or painful erections of the penis that last for hours (priapism). |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to this medicine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives. |
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions exactly when using this medicine.
- Take this pill with a glass of water .
- Do not break, crush, or chew this tablet. Swallow it as is. These are designed to be absorbed by the body.
- You can take this with or without food.
- Take your medicine at the prescribed intervals, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
- Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
- This medicine is not usually given to children. If you need special advice about it, talk to a pediatrician.
Overdosage
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason. It is dangerous and illegal.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What other things can interact with this medicine?
Other medications you are taking may interact with Lorcaserin. Therefore, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- Some medications for mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.
- Some medications for migraines.
- Medication for erectile dysfunction in men.
- Painkillers such as Tramadol.
- Cough medicine containing dextromethorphan.
- Other specific medications such as Linezolid, Lithium, Cabergoline, Tryptophan.
- St. John's Wort, an herbal remedy.
- Medications for diabetes.
- Other products taken to lose weight.
- Stimulant medications for attention disorders.
This list may not be comprehensive, so tell your doctor about all medications, herbs, and vitamins you take. Don't forget to tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
While taking this medicine, you need to be especially careful about some things.
- Regular medical check-ups: See your doctor regularly to check your progress. You may also need to have blood tests while taking this medicine.
- Mental health: Be vigilant for new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts . Also watch for sudden changes in mood, such as anxiety, agitation, irritability, aggression, or extreme restlessness. Call your doctor right away if these symptoms occur, especially when you first start taking the medication or after changing your dose.
- Men's Health: If you are a man, tell your doctor immediately if you experience a painful erection (priapism) that lasts more than 4 hours . This can be a serious condition. If not treated quickly, it can cause permanent damage.
- Pregnancy: Tell your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant, or if you think you may be pregnant. It is not advisable to lose weight during pregnancy. It may harm the unborn baby.
- Cancer risk: Some studies have shown that this medication may slightly increase the risk of some types of cancer. Therefore, discuss the risks and benefits of using this medication with your doctor before making a decision.
- Caution: Do not do anything that requires alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you know how this medicine affects you.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effects |
|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately |
|
| If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. |
|
If you experience any other side effects not listed on this list, please inform your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Lorcaserin is only a weight loss aid. For this to be successful, a healthy diet and exercise are essential.
- Before you start taking the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and any other medications you are taking, without hiding anything.
- Be very careful about any mental changes, suicidal thoughts, or other serious side effects while taking this medication. Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any of these.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give it to anyone else.
- Discuss the potential risks associated with this medication, especially the risk of cancer, with your doctor and make an informed decision.
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