Vivus Inc, the pharmaceutical company responsible for Qnexa, has announced that the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision on their weight loss drug is pending and to be released on July 17th. The European Medicines Agency’s (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human use (CHMP) has set a date for an oral hearing this September. Vivus also informs us that if they are approved by the FDA, they will be looking to market the product later this year.
Qnexa is made from low dose phentermine and topiramate, which have the combined effect of decreasing appetite and increasing the feeling of satiety. Clinical trials have gleaned very positive results, comprising substantial weight loss and all the health benefits that accompany that, including better management of blood sugar levels. Clearly, a healthy lifestyle must be maintained and a healthy diet adopted to maximise the benefits of the medication. We imagine that on July 17th, Vivus will be leaving the FDA after receiving a nod of approval. We will update our news pages as soon as a decision has been made.