Lorcaserin is a medication used in certain patients to control weight. It should only be taken within a program that includes a low calorie diet and daily physical exercise.
What is Lorcaserin?
The exact mechanism of action of lorcaserin has not yet been identified. It affects chemicals in the brain that trigger a sense of satiety and reduce hunger.
How should Lorcaserin be taken?
Lorcaserin is administered orally.
Side effects associated with Lorcaserin
Lorcaserin may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, serotonin syndrome, and high prolactin in the blood and in rare cases, prolonged or painful erections. It may also reduce the ability to fight infections. In cases involving type 2 diabetes, it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Among the other possible side effects of lorcaserin include the following:
- Back ache
- Constipation
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty urinating
- Rapid, irregular or slow heart rate
- Fainting
- Persistent fever, chills or sore throat
- Hallucinations
- Memory problems
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Severe psychological problems
- Muscle spasms or tics
- Prolonged or painful erection
- Restlessness
- Severe or persistent headache or dizziness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sudden and unjustified weight gain
- Suicidal thoughts
- Swollen hands, ankles, feet, or legs
- Difficulty concentrating
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Vision problems
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Lorcaserin
Lorcaserin is contraindicated in case of pregnancy, severe kidney problems or if you are being treated with cabergoline.
The intake of the drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be aggravated by alcohol and certain other medications.
Before starting treatment with lorcaserin, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or to any other drugs, food or various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: other drugs to lose weight, insulin or other antidiabetic drugs, antipsychotics, bupropion, dextromethorphan, linezolid, lithium, MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, SNRIs, St. John's wort, tramadol, tricyclic antidepressants, triptans, tryptophan, cabergoline or phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from penis deformation, prolonged erection, blood cell problems, diabetes, heart problems, kidney or liver disease, pulmonary hypertension, mood or psychiatric disorders
- You are experiencing (or have experienced) suicidal thoughts
- You are suffering from high prolactin in the blood
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
It is important to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with lorcaserin.
