Belviq Makers Hit With Suit Over Weight-Loss Drug Cancer Tie (1)

Eisai Inc. and Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. exposed users of the withdrawn weight-loss drug Belviq to a significantly elevated risk of cancer, a new proposed class suit alleges.

Belviq and Belviq XR are brand-name, prescription weight loss medications that are intended to reduce appetite by increasing feelings of fullness.

The Food and Drug Administration requested Feb. 13, 2020, that the drugs be withdrawn from the market because the potential cancer risk outweighed the drugs’ potential benefits.

Eisai said the lawsuit is without merit and intends to vigorously defend against it. The drug “has a positive benefit/risk profile, demonstrated by an extensive ...