Eisai Company Ltd (ESALY)

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From ARNA board. BELVIQ SUCCESS STORIES / PATIENT TESTIMONIALS


THIS IS NOT AN OFFICIAL WEBSITE. IT IS NOT OWNED, OPERATED, AUTHORIZED BY ARENA PHARMA (NASDAQ:ARNA) OR EISAI. SEE IMPORTANT PRESCRIBING AND SAFETY INFORMATION ON www.BELVIQ.com. CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT ARE *NOT* MEDICAL ADVICE AND ARE *NOT* INVESTMENT ADVICE. CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR ANY AND ALL MEDICAL ADVICE. THESE ARE PUBLIC STATEMENTS SOMETIMES MADE BY ANONYMOUS PERSONS. OWNER OF THIS WEBSITE CAN NOT GUARANTEE THEIR AUTHENTICITY. BELVIQ® is a registered trademark of Arena Pharmaceuticals GmbH.


PATIENT TESTIMONIALS
As noted above the authenticity of many of these is not known.



9 days 8 pounds
Picked up my new script for B today at CVS. My insurance company picked up a certain amount and Eisai savings card picked up a certain amount. Based on the card and my coverage I ended up with a $50 copay. No matter, $50 is still a great price when it has allowed me to lose a lot of weight already and halve my insulin usage. I am very happy with my results so far. It looks like it will be $600 a year. However I am saving ALOT of money on insulin and another IMAO I was taking. So all in all I am about breaking even
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First week results: dropped 5.5 pounds - no side effects

Dropped 5 1/2 pounds. Side effects: none! Simply do not feel particularly hungry - eat because some food is necessary to keep body healthy. Definitely will go on regular prescription. Dr. waiting for results at end of week 2. Sure he will then recommend BELVIQ to other patients.


“A MIRACLE DRUG” : Doctor’s two weeks personal experience with Belviq

I am the ophthalmologist from Dearborn mi. who started taking Belviq two weeks ago.So far I have gone from 242lbs. to 234lbs. for a net loss of 8 lbs. I am eating about half of what I was eating with way less carbs. Further my insulin needs are about one third of what they were before Belviq.. I have no food cravings as I had before Belviq. MY SUGAR LEVELS HAVE IMPROVED TO NORMAL LEVELS FOR A NON DIABETIC.This is truly a life saving drug and a godsend. This truly a miracle drug, I will report my progress in another two weeks.By the way my office staff has noticed my weight loss and six of them who were very overweight insisted on going on Belviq. So I wrote them scripts.


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LOST 20 POUNDS

I was part of one of the initial FDA trials of lorcaserin, now on the market as Belviq. I lost 20% of my weight with no additional exercise because I am a "responder". This drug makes my urges to eat and hunger something I can control. I was normal weight for most of my life but started steadily gaining weight after my last of 4 kids were born when I was in my mid-30's. I testified at the FDA panel last year to urge them to allow those of us for whom this drug is very effective to have access....

... This drug works almost immediately so it makes sense for folks to try it with their physician to see if they are also a responder. I got my prescription and have started back on the drug and it works just as I remembered. I hope to lose all of my excess weight in about a year or so but expect to be on it for life, which is preferable to getting sick from being overweight and having to take medicine to treat diabetes or high blood pressure.


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My experience on Belviq

received my rx on 14th. my pharmacy did not have it in, and had to go out of town, vac in omaha. on fri 15th called walmart and cvs, did not have it in, called walgreens, and picked it up 20 min later.

I quit craving food,no more fridge raids. half as much at each meal. as of 24th I had lost 11.5 lbs and 4 belt loops. my pot belly is shrinking amazingly. a 2x fits now instead of 3x.

I have never felt this well in 20 years. and I have not really increased working out. but I am very much more active.

I will be getting my first rx for 30 days today. the coupon will pay my copay.


bottom line, it works, no or minimal side effects.
I keep losing, not hungry anymore, and fill after a few bites at a meal.
I need a new belt already. 4 loops in 2 weeks. stomach keeps shrinking. Before I would go to the fridge all day and snack, and never feel full at meals. it is incredible. I feel 20 years younger and alot more active. all within 2 weeks.



Just stopped by my doc's office 14.5 lbs lost since 14th of June [posted Jul 1]


feel great. never hungry. eat alot less to get the full feeling now. not exercising any more, too hot, but i am more active, as I feel so great.
he just said "wow" and he could not believe it when I showed him by belt... told him how never hungry, no more grazing and eat less at meals he asked about side affects and such, and told him how I always felt sated.


Day 4 on Belviq - seems like a responder, but waiting to see. . . .
Family member has been eating roughly 1000 -1200 kcal/day; noticeably reduced appetite. No side effects reported (despite excessive heat, and a BART strike).
. . . .


My Wife
My wife, who besides being perfect, is a typical overweight middle aged woman with children. She's lost 5 lbs in the past 13 days on Belviq. Frankly, she's thrilled.


my progress
I started on friday (the 15). wasnt sure i was gonna, because on vac in omaha. but did it anyway. same thing I do not eat snacks, and eat alot less when I do eat. 2 belt loops lost in just those 4 days. even my family noticed already. I never have the craving to eat. feel great.

Now 4 belt loops smaller. And still no cravings for food. It is amazing. Can't wait to go to dr office to see how much I have lost. Will let you all know. 10 days on it now.

as of yesterday, lost 11 lbs in 10 days. no more craving food. and eat less at meals



The beginning of my Belviq program.
I recently returned from the UK on a 21 day vacation. I had gained from 238 lbs to 246. I am now back down to 237 lbs and will begin BELVIQ today to reduce back to my goal wt of 195 lbs. I have pictures for proof and will keep everyone posted that gives a rip. Also as of today I have written 74 rx's and turned down about 14 patient requests for Belviq.( did not meet criteria)
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Two days on Belviq and 3 lbs lost ! I did walk 2.5 miles am and pm both days but I have also done that since getting back from the UK 2.5 weeks ago. My calves are slightly sore but the belly is smaller for it. 234 lbs and counting......just not as much !



Almost 2 weeks on Belviq and I am down almost 7 lbs!
Belviq is "Will Power in a Bottle!" I can't tell you how many times I passed up my favorite foods and second helpings! I am just not hungry anymore!


lost 10 pounds on Belviq in about 12 days


Started a low-carb diet on Friday June 7th, weighed 254 pounds, started Belviq on Tuesday June 11th, weighed in with Dr Nguyen this morning weighed 244 pounds.
That is 3.9% weight loss in 10-14 days.
Diet has been easy, no side effects at all, never want a second portion, I sleep better, [I sometimes get insomnia, worrying about my business, etc. That is G-O-N-E]. I do not feel like I am missing out.
I like desserts but now have a tiny portion of nuts or cheese or non-fat yogurt. I tell myself I can have more if I want but I never get up to get more, last couple of nights I skipped the dessert altogether, which is pretty significant for me.
Another important point is food smells and tastes GREAT.
Last night was one hamburger patty, and a skewer of brussel sprouts, onions, tomatoes. That's it. Didn't feel like dessert.
I walk 2 miles about 3 times a week, and want to get up to 6 or 7.
My work is very hard labor about 40% of the time, so I have always been physically active.
Belviq has been a big success for me, and if it was not you know I would not hesitate to say so.
¡Viva Belviq!


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A New Day
From:

http://belviqdaily.blogspot.ca/

This morning, I got the RX filled by my pharmacy and I took my first dose at about 10:00 am. For lunch, although probably not ideal for weight loss, my coworkers treated me to an already pre-planned lunch. Mexican food is one of my weaknesses. I CRAVE salsa and can usually go through 2 bowls before my meal even comes out. I always, for the most part, finish my plate. Today, I ordered the taco dinner. It comes with the standard beans, rice, and had 3 tacos. I didn't realize that I only had 1/2 small bowl of salsa before my food came out. By the time I got my food, I was already feeling "full". I ate 1 taco and that was it! I was full.

So, is this a sign that this will really work? So far, my mind isn't consumed on eating - which is not normal for me.


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LOST WEIGHT IN JUST 2 DAYS WITH NO SIDE EFFECTS

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Obesity: I just started taking this medicine and completed 2 days thus far. I have noticed that my interest in food, especially the unhealthy stuff, is gone. Even the foods that usually are great at tempting me really have no effect at all. They all of a sudden have become easy to resist. Furthermore, when I do eat, I definitely don't eat as much as I feel full sooner. I also noticed my mood has improved. In just 2 days I have lost just over 1 lb. My doctor did advise me that Belviq should be combined with diet and exercise. I am older so exercise becomes problematic as my joints are stiff. Anyhow I believe this medication will be helpful to those patients who tried everything and failed. I have had no side effects at this point although it is soon.

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LOST 12 POUNDS IN 5 DAYS

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Weight Loss: I am a 6 ft guy, weighed in at 241lbs, with hypertension. If I didn't lose weight I was in need of a new blood pressure medicine and possibly cholesterol medicines. I have taken Belviq 5 days and lost 12 lb with no side effects. Thumbs up to Belviq!

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LOST SEVERAL POUNDS IN A COUPLE OF DAYS

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Weight Loss: I've only taken belviq a couple of days, but already I've lost several pounds and my desire for food, alcohol, and sugar. Today is day three and I do feel so good. I'll add more info as time progresses.

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VIDEO IN DOCTOR'S OFFICE

http://belviqdaily.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-weigh-inare-you-ready.html


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LOST 60 POUNDS

I was part of the clinical trial in Utah. Apparently I was a 'responder' as I lost 60 pounds in the first year of the study (my starting weight was 279). I didn't diet; but I tried to maintain a caloric intake of 2000-2500 calories per day. I found this to be easy because the medication took away the hunger pangs. I didn't change my physical routine which could be described as somewhat sedentary (I didn't run or go to the gym). The second year on the placebo, sticking to the caloric intake range was more difficult and I eventually gained back half of the the weight. I think for those obese persons (over BMI of 30) who respond to the treatment, this is a viable option compared to the risks of obesity. I had zero side effects; including no negative affect on heart valves.v

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BIG CHANGE IN APPETITE

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Obesity: I just picked up Belviq over the weekend and I can say that I noticed a big change in my appetite. It's as if I have no energy to eat more than I have to and my stomach feels more full sooner into the meal so I eat less. Now I have tried many diets, many weight loss supplements without success so I was skeptical. Belviq is different. Instead of messing with your metabolism, it focuses on the appetite center and nothing more. I have had no side effects! Unlike the others I have tried in the past such as anxiety, nervousness, headaches, palpitations. I'm motivated to finally lose that 30 lbs my doctor keeps yelling at me about!

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LOST FOUR POUNDS IN A FEW DAYS

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Weight Loss: I talked to my doctor about Belviq and got a prescription last week. So far I have lost 4 pounds and feel great. It's like I am suddenly motivated to lose weight. I think as the weight comes off exercising will become easier. I am tolerating the medication without side effects. I noticed no appetite for food and a boost in energy without the nervousness I felt with some of the over the counter products I used to take. I have told my friends and family about Belviq.

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LOST SIX POUNDS IN A WEEK

Belviq (lorcaserin) for Weight Loss: I was waiting a long time for Belviq to come out. It's been close to a week and I've lost over 6 lbs. Pretty impressive. Yes I am dieting and exercising but I am eating less. I just don't feel like eating anymore! I am hoping to lose 20lbs in 6 months. I got a real good chance here. I don't feel any headaches or nausea like my doctor said.

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5 full days on Belviq
"After 5 full days on Belviq I can assure you this is going to be a wildly successful product. It has made sticking to a diet of reduced portions and healthier foods EASY. I can now eat half what I used to and feel completely full. It has eliminated my compulsion to snack when watching tv or a movie and the results are already noticeable. I started Belviq weighing 227 and as of this morning I was at 222 (after only 5 days). I'm not starving myself, just eating the amount I should have been eating for the last decade. So the 3-3.7% weight loss numbers "analysts" keep quoting is a complete joke. I believe I will achieve 10% weight loss in only a couple months and I know I will have Belviq to thank. The only side effects I have noticed thus far is being able to fall asleep faster and having a more upbeat and positive attitude in general."

"This really feels like a new chapter in my life. After 3 yrs of anxiously waiting for Belviq to hit pharmacies, I imagined the effect and weight loss would be subtle in a year. I am overjoyed that it's far more effective than that"

"From the 1st pill I have done my best in attempting to separate wishful self weight loss hopes from the reality of Belviq. I know Belviq is having an effect because it has been PROFOUND. If I dared to eat as little as I am now without Belviq food would be on my mind 24/7. Instead it feels like I can eat like I'm supposed to without the craving monkey on my back. "


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Couldn't be happier


I have taken Belviq for about a week now and I couldn't be happier with it. I have cut my portions down by almost 2/3 of what they were and the lbs are coming off! I don't know about you, but the only side effect I have experienced so far has been falling asleep faster and sleeping better. Not bad :)


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"I Felt Full Already"

Good luck with your weight loss quest. Started my own today. I took my first Belviq pill. No side effects so far. I just tried to eat dinner, got through my salad and and only had a few bites of main course when I actually felt full already. I stopped eating. As far as insurance I have Aetna and a very good Rx plan, I paid $5 for the 30 day supply, my doc wants me to see him in 30 days to decide where were going from there. I have BMI 31 and high blood pressure which I take medicine for.

t was weird, its like I was eating and mentally I felt I was done. I stopped eating and told myself "You don't have to clear your plate" I have to take 2 meals a day to work as I am here 10hrs I work 2Pm to midnight. So I guess I will be bringing smaller portions. My wife is not taking Belviq yet but I think she will soon.(I'm the test case) Her endo had her try Q [QSYMIA] but it made her feel really bad so she quit. We are working on changing what we eat to more natural and less processed foods. Hoping Belviq will help this quest along. Getting thinner in the waist and thicker in the wallet(wink).

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Back with the little blue pill

Yesterday I took a 2nd dose very early, about 6 am. Had an aquatic workout in the day but had no compulsion to eat until about 7 pm and again, I clearly felt the effect of impulse suppression. Though I ate about 90% of my usual intake last night, the day before (my first day taking Belviq) I estimate my food intake was only about 2/3 of what I usually consume. Other, very notable positive effects include a general state of mild euphoria and - for me - about halving of my tobacco intake; I dip, do not smoke, but only had 5 dips yest and the day before when I otherwise would typically have 8-10 dips through the day.

Both the eating and dipping reductions are very significant IMO as I'm really trying Belviq to make my own subjective guage on the effect of this drug. My BMI not bad, not overweight and I'm not really interested in quitting my dipping at this point. After my 2nd day of trying Belviq, I continue to believe Belviq will be very well tolerated and for those such as myself who note a positive response, will do very well with both appetite suppression AND tobacco cessation (clearly, ARNA will need to do clinical investigations vis a vis smoking cessation but I have little doubt they are already planning for this in the future and would not obviate Belviq being used effectively off label for this purpose).


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Better Control of Blood Sugar Even For Type 1 Diabetic

type 1 diabetic that is on Belviq and is losing weight but more importantly is having much better control of his blood sugar allowing him to use less pens a day.


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Combo With Phen


"My dr. wants me to take 1/2 phentermine in the am and take the other half w/a belviq in the afternoon - I'm on day 3 and feel good. Phentermine was okay on it's own but didn't do a whole lot"


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No Adverse Side Effects

I have had no adverse side effects. BMs 100% normal, though I do not have DM or any other metabolic/serious medical condition.
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I've been in Belviq for 7 days .

Day one 215 lbs . Day seven 207 lbs . I have no desire to eat a bag of chips , or a box of Klondike Bars .. I fill up fast and never have the munchies . I felt good about the science , but being on Belviq and experiencing it first hand is unbelievable . I havent experienced any known side effects . No doubt Belviq will be the best selling drug of all time . I also know 6 others on Belviq with very similar results ..

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DOCTOR SAID IT'S SAFE - BELVIQ WORKED IMMEDIATELY

Picked up a prescription for it Monday and my doctor assured me several thousands of patients had been studied with no serious adverse reactions.
I started on it today and for the first time I can recall (years), I had two mixed green salads with no dressing or caloric add ons. I only ate because I wanted to join the family but honestly, I did not even feel like eating and even passed on dessert. I have a very addictive sweet tooth and always eat dessert. I think Belviq will be a major step for me reducing my weight and improving my overall health.

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Note on one script
My wife took B yesterday. Food craving definitely down. Sex craving unchanged. Looks like I'm a double winner.


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16 days on Belviq

On June 14 I was at 227. Now 16 days later I've dropped 9 lbs to 218. Sticking to a greatly reduced calorie diet continues to be easy as the voracious appetite I once had just isn't there anymore. Once you get used to smaller portions the effect is compounded by a smaller stomach which makes sticking to the diet even easier. The biggest difference from dieting now and in the past is when I would avoid bad food to maintain a diet in the past the cravings to eat those bad foods would be overwhelming and ultimately I would fall off the wagon. Now with Belviq, staying on the wagon is quite easy. Those bad food cravings are almost non-existent and now I can easily stick to a diet of smaller portions. I thought initially I would ask my doc about combining with fent** but now I know Belviq as a single agent is plenty effective enough. There continues to be zero side effects.


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Lost 50 pounds on BELVIQ
•This gentleman lost 50 Pounds on BELVIQ.


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One Full Day on Belviq...
After spending 3 years following Arena & lorcaserin and investing quite a large chunk of my portfolio (not to mention needing to lose about 40 lbs) I saw my doctor and he reluctantly prescribed me Belviq. He was hesitant because he had not heard of it before I filled him in and when I mentioned the similarities between lorcaserin and fenfluramine he shuddered a bit (understandably). Of course I mentioned the 9k patients received echos in phase 3 and there were no signs of any cardiac event, but then he countered with "when exposed to millions sometimes drugs...." I'm sure you know the rest. Still his interest was piqued and he decided to let me be the first in his office to be prescribed Belviq. The local CVS in Dallas did not have it in stock but they ordered a bottle and it was there the following day. I filled my prescription yesterday evening using the voucher for 2 weeks free and took my 1st 10mg this morning at 9am and 2nd around 5pm today. I woke up quite typically this morning, annoyed and craving a chick-fil-a chicken biscuit. I felt the onset of the medication almost within 15 minutes although it was subtle. I was still hungry but I wasn't craving chick-fil-a anymore. It almost felt as if something healthy was now "ok" with my brain instead. I had some oatmeal and actually felt full after a small bowl! I'm not sure if I was just happy that Belviq was seemingly working or it's effect on the 2c receptor was causing a particularly good mood but I felt reeaallly positive today. I had a fairly typical light lunch for me and dinner around 6:30. The portion I ate at dinner was only about half of what I would have had usually and I truly felt full. It's effect on my brain doesn't feel like something strange is happening but rather something very familiar. It's honestly quite similar to a post meal feeling of contentment and well being. I can't wait to continue on with this drug tomorrow and maybe for quite a bit of time to come. Belviq is going to a big deal.


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My first week on Belviq STATS (6 days)
I will update this each Saturday so we have a continuous record of my results. For the first 6 days:
Regular Insulin (before meals) started at 30 units three times a day. I now take 14 units 3 times a day.
Overnight Insulin (overnight coverage) started at 30 units. I now take 18 Units.
My weight started at 201 Pounds and as of this morning I weigh 195 Pounds.
Please note my exercise regimen has been limited to walking 1 mile per day.


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Using Belviq for 10 days,
today would be my 10th day on Belviq- first 2 days noticed no difference or side effects- HOWEVER, over the last week I can truly say I have had a decrease in appetite both the amount of food I consume each meal and the amount of meals.( about a 20% decrease)


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DAY 14 REPORT

Day 14 I'm down to 204 from 215..I have always worked out 5 day a week and continue to do so. My whole life I've been a gym rat. However, the 25 Ibs. I've tried to lose for many years is finally coming off.

I also have a hiatal hernia and carried extra belly fat which caused me to have plumbing issues. When I would overeat, food would get stuck on the way down which would caused me to throw up violently. Since Ive been on Belviq, I haven't thrown up once. My doctor ask me years ago to lose 25 lbs which would help out with that issue. Until now, I just couldn't lose the weight.

I eat an average breakfast eggs, bacon and toast with juice or chocolate milk. Most days I just don't get hungry at all. I have to force myself to eat most days. In the past, I would eat 3 to 5 meals a day, along with my chips and 4 to 5 klondike bars. This past week I've had 2 bars for the week. I just have no cravings at all.

Side effects, I think I felt weird for a few days. I think it's from my body just getting used to less food. I seem to sleep longer. I have had a few long lasting erections. I seem to feel much more positive, perhaps due to the weight loss.

If this isn't a magic bullet, I don't know what is. It's been amazing for me.



10 days, 11 lbs.


and on the last belt loop now. 4 from the start. it is amazing. no side effects for me. I just do not crave food any more. Thank you dr vig for telling me about this a couple years ago.
I still do not remember if you told me as an investment or weight loss or both. I did both now!...


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Size 36

Looking forward to size 36 jeans again.


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No Side Effects

Started BELVIQ this week NO SIDE EFFECTS. Has already started to work in that I am not hungry, I have to force myself to eat for nutrition. Any health professional who has the ability to prescribe drugs can write a prescription for Belviq. Due to the newness of this drug many doctors, etc will not have heard of it. Just insist on them to prescribe for your life wellness.


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Tried the little blue pill

Retired MD. Intrigued by receptor selectivity, exhaustive eval for possible ADRs, valves etc during clinical investigations, efficacy and potential for positive "side effects", I've been waiting to give Belviq a trial run on myself. Got a Rx filled today and did not eat anything all day, though not unusual as my big meal is always supper, rarely refusing dessert (very active sweet tooth).




Did not want to eat supper but sat down with my family and had two mixed green salads with no dressing or add ons. I never, ever recall choosing to eat salad without jazzing it up with dressing or some big caloric add on and I do love my salads. I passed on dessert. Very noticeable effect on my usual pattern of end of day near compulsive eating. No ill effects at all; felt cognition was stimulated and while not a big party drug, for me, at least a mildly euphoric effect. I think Belviq will be a very well received drug.


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Belviq in hand!

I'm a 260 lb, 42 year old male, business executive, (4 small kids at home), don't get too much time to exercize during the week. I'm a 32 BMI. I graduated college around 220 lbs, and my goal weight is between 200 and 210.

I had a dr. appt. scheduled for June 7th. I printed out the 15 day free trial from the website and brought along. My doctor had never heard of Belviq, but kind of shrugged his shoulders and said, "I don't think it will work for you, but I'll write the script.." I expected this lack of knowledge so I was happy to just get the prescription. He asked to see me back in 30 days to check progress. On June 10th, I went to RiteAied, Walgreens, Target, Walmart--no one had heard of Belviq and no one had it in the distribution system to order. Several told me it was not an approved drug and to immediately call my doctor. I called around on the 11th, and magically!--Target had it show up as a drug avaiable to order! They still had never heard of it but were happy they could place a next day order and fill my script.

So I got Belviq on June 12th and have take two pills so far. Already, I can tell this will make a big difference for me! I'm not hungry at all. I have a little 'tingling sensation' at the temples (like after a venti latte), but beside that just a complete lack of appetite.

I will log on every couple of days to provide an update!


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WOW BELVIQ CALL CENTER!

So busy 15 min hold! Savings card and voucher can be mailed to you! Nice lady said they are non stop calls comming in!

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Have my Belviq prescription
Took script yesterday Tuesday to small independent pharmacy price $240/month
picked up prescription this afternoon, was no charge, 15 day supply, nice.
Pharmacy said I am the first Belviq prescription.
Took pill immediately, 2pm, these Belviq pills are tiny.
Ate a snack of Cotto Salami and Havarti cheese, not much, went to Home Depot and did repairs around house, operated heavy machinery[!], everything ok, feel nothing really
8pm Fired up BBQ and grilled 2 6oz tuna steaks and brussel sprouts for spouse and I.
Had a cup of mixed nuts around 10.
Taking 2nd Belviq pill now.
Feeling just like normal, no side effects.
There were no "seconds" available for dinner tonight, but guess I did not miss that, [I usually get "seconds"]
sometimes truth is boring, oh well.

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Day 1 Belviq
Picked up script yesterday. First customer for Belviq. Started Belviq today. My weight was 215.4. Went to gym, did 35 minutes cardio on level 15, highest heart rate was 105. Did regular workout routine, no apparent side effects. Came home and had a grapefruit. After first section, I felt full.

Am not hungry and have no desire for food.


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I am already seeing good results after just ONE Day
My Naked Weight measured the same 250.8 pounds yesterday and exactly 250.8 pounds this AM; however, my Fasting Glucose yesterday was 164 and this morning it measured 102 and I swear by these numbers. This is huge already 102 is a perfect reading, I am already thinking of reducing my Humalog from 40 units down to ~ 30 units, I have not taken the meds yet, I am taking some time to really think how much Humalog I should take, I am thinking about 32 units so that my reading before lunch does not go below 80 (now, I might have to add the lunch reading to the spreadsheet given the fasting is showing normal numbers)


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Real life story from peson who took Belviq.
Martha: I was in the last Phase III 2 years study. Lorcaserin has been approved by the FDA and will be distributed soon. It IS NOT A MAGIC PILL. Just helps to control appetite and gives you an edge. You still have to diet, plan meals, AND EXERCISE. I lost 52 lbs in one year on it. Helped me to walk away from food and not CRAVE, CRAVE, CRAVE all day. Very few side effects. I had some dry mouth and eyes, a little more fatigue at first, and the great side effect of being able to fall asleep quickly. I stress at night and couldn’t fall asleep. Now I can, still, even after being off it for 2 years. It retrained my brain.
Leslie: I did this study for the 2 years! I did lose 57 lbs.the 1st year.The second year I gained a small amount back (did not really stick to a 1700 calorie diet,so it was expected)I did have alot of energy,my cholerterol did improve & It did control my hunger & cravings.I got my letter just the other day(march 1st,2013) that states I was given the lorcaserin for both years (not the placebo)I would love to go back on the lorcaserin, I am searching places now to get it,as it is on the market now. Also I never had any s*de *ffects or h*art problems(we went to hospital for check ups & ekg every 6 mos)we also had a doctor on site, to monitor us when we had our appts. We had regular blood draws at each appt as well.My friend started the same time as I did,only to quit after about 9 months into the study (I think she must have got the placebo,I did not ask yet if she got her letter)overall I was satisfied with the results & do reccomend trying Lorcacerin!


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Day one on Belviq
Had little sleep last night due to the heat and a toe injury taking down a wall in my basement last night.

Took a dose around 8 a.m. and didn't think to eat until around 1:30 pm when I was feeding the baby. I didn't have much. I was excited to take the baby out to the play gym and slide that I put together during his nap. Took a second dose at 4 p.m. I had a mild transitory headache(15 minutes) that I'm attributing to the heat and lack of water.

Its not unusual for me to miss a meal without thinking about it. Almost always, at the next meal I dig in with gusto. We have some guests coming over tonight and the wife is cooking something good. We'll see.

At this point I have no clue whether I'm a responder or not. On similar days in the past, I would be ramping up some serious hunger by now. Now, I'm a little hungry, but its not much. Hard to explain.

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Losing weight without trying hard

"Belviq user1 said he is enjoying BELVIQ, too. He is losing weight, controlling his cravings without even having to try very hard. And he said he has a friend, whose father-in-law is an even bigger, heavier man who is also losing weight on BELVIQ."
CVS visit... BELVIQ "selling like hotcakes"
I went to pick up a prescription at my CVS in Bergen Coiunty, N.J. (Paramus area) and I have spoken to both pharmacists...
just as I was leaving with my prescrption I turned to her and asked if she ever heard of Belviq.

Her answer was in one word and I am not exagerating) HOTCAKES. She said to me that the prescription was selling like hotcakes.

FIRST PILL

Took first pill this evening and got a low sugar reading within an hour of having dinner...
I want to get back to my 195 avg weight. I've had a slow healing foot problem for the past ten months and quickly shot to 226 at my heaviest.
Been looking forward to this little blue pill to get a kick start on my road to healthyness again


Progress Monitoring Spreadsheet
Early signs after one pill this AM:

1) Been munching on a Fat Free Fig Newton Bar since this AM instead of my usual Sausage, egg and cheese on a Croissant with a cup of coffee from Dunkin Donut every morning.
2) felt a little of nausea due to empty stomach; however, there was no craving for food. I just had a Cup of soup for Lunch with some croutons and the nausea feeling went away.
3) I have been smoking a cigarette since this AM every about 1.5 hours instead my usual 1 hour interval.

Will be posting my progress spreadsheet every weekend on Saturday GOOD OR BAD, it will only state the FACTS about my progress

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DOCTORS

NOTE FROM DOCTOR


Patient lost 5 pounds after being on BELVIQ for a few days
"I saw one patient with United insurance today who started Belviq a few days ago. He says he has no side effects from the medicine and simply does not feel like eating so much. I was surprised to see that he has lost 5 pounds since his last visit with me that happened to be less than two weeks ago."



NOTE FROM DOCTOR

doctor Vig and Belviq prescriptions this week

Today is Friday, 6 14 2013, before my clinic starts. From monday through thursday this week I gave prescriptions of Belviq to 19 patients, which is over 4 patients per day. I have handed out a number of Vouchers for the free 15 day supply of Belviq, which is accompanied by a prescription for the 15 day supply of Belviq. I am also giving the patient a monthly prescription of Belviq, which can be refilled 5 times. Both prescriptions are printed on our blue tamper proof paper. I am giving each patient a handout on diet tips, and a second handout about Belviq. I have filled out some prior authorization forms and faxed them to the insurances. A couple of patients who were on medicare and did not have insurance coverage of Belviq were going to use the Voucher, followed by cash payment for Belviq using the Savings Card from the Belviq web site. Cash price of Belviq at CVS across the street is about 209 dollars per month, and the Savings Card will decrease this by 75 dollars per month to 134 dollars per month, and can be used monthly for up to 12 months. I sent a group email to our Carondelet doctors here in Tucson about Belviq. I also send an email to a doctor at Arizona Community Physicians, another large group here in Tucson, and the doctor offered to send the email to those doctors. My patients are excited about trying Belviq for weight loss. I have given Belviq prescriptions to a total of 178 patients so far over the last few weeks.
Steven Vig md internal medicine tucson arizona friday 6 14 2013


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NOTE FROM DOCTOR

I see 20-25 patients per day in my office. The day Belviq was in the pharmacies, I Rx'd eight people. These are patients who have BMI's over 30. They have tried everything else under the sun to lose wt. Their family members confirm that compliance has been observed in terms of not cheating with diet, exercising regularly and in general trying to maintain as healthy a life style as possible. They are suffering varying degrees of comorbid problems and were absolutely giddy when they learned that this NEW medication was available. The fact that they could take something that would not keep them up at night or cause palpitations was key for them. To date, I have Rx'd 28 patients in my small practice.


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NOTE FROM DOCTOR
Medical Assistant Misses Lunch by Doctor Vig
A medical assistant at my office has been on Belviq for several days.
On Wednesday, I noticed that she was still working on her computer at
lunch time. The other medical assistants had gone to lunch, so I
asked her if she was going to lunch. She said that she just “wasn’t
hungry” and she had decided to “skip lunch”. I have NEVER seen this
medical assistant miss lunch before! She also said that she had
decreased her food intake in the evenings. She “felt full” and did
not feel like eating very much food at night. She said that she was
already beginning to lose weight. She has a history of headaches, and
I asked her if she was having any headache problems, but she said that
she was not having increased headaches. She said she felt “just
fine”. Time to maximum concentration after a single pill of Belviq is
about 2 hours. The half life of Belviq is 11 hours, and steady state
concentration is reached after 3 days of dosing when given at 10 mg
orally twice a day, with or without food. Patients should feel
maximum effect of Belviq after 3 days of dosing. Risk of headache is
about 16% compared to 10 % on placebo, so it was encouraging that the
medical assistant was not experiencing headaches. We know that Belviq
works according to the clinical studies. It is encouraging to see
positive effects of Belviq first hand.
Steven Vig md internal medicine Tucson, Arizona 6 21 2013


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NOTE FROM DOCTOR

I've written just a few Rx's for Belviq and as far as I know only one of them filled it so far. That person gave me feedback that was surprisingly positive regarding hunger cravings, mood, side effects etc. But even more surprising, and out of the blue because I hadn't even thought of it much less addressed it, was that this person said they were consuming about half as much tobacco as normal. I'm not one for putting (too) much value on early pipeline drugs but anecdotally this is remarkable since cutting back on tobacco is associated with undesirable weight GAIN. Guess instead of saying Belviq costs a starbux a day, might-could say it costs a half-pack a day.


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From Patient: Summary after 7 days on Belviq:

(FROM A PATIENT)

Today's fasting Weight = 246.0 # = (-1.9%) from 250.8#
Fasting Glucose this AM = 101 mg/dL
Insulin Intake yesterday = 74 units instead of 100 daily units
AMAZING Glucose readings yesterday:
Fasting = 114
Before Lunch = 73
Before dinner = 99
2 Hours after dinner = 122
============
Date | FW | % WL | AMF | NBL | PMB | PMA | Belv | Glum | Huma | MBV | Cigs | Ex
6/13/13 | 250.8 | 0.0% | 164 | NM | 216 | 173 | 10-10 | 0.5-1.0 | 40-60 | --- | 18 | ---
6/14/13 | 250.8 | 0.0% | 102 | 106 | 193 | 85 (*) | 10-10 | 0.5-1.0 | 32-60 | --- | 19 | ---
6/15/13 | 251.6 | 0.3% | 145 | NM | 150 | 182 | 10-10 | 0.5-0.5 | 40-52 | --- | 27 | ---
6/16/13 | 251.2 | 0.2% | 118 | 135 | 187 | 158 | 10-10 | 0.5-1.0 | 32-52 | 1C-1C | 20 | Ex7
6/17/13 | 250.6 | -0.1% | 115 | 118 | 163 | 139 | 10-10 | 0.5-1.0 | 30-50 | 1C-1C | 20 | Ex7
6/18/13 | 246.9 | -1.6% | 112 | 105 | 144 | 166 | 10-10 | 0.5-1.0 | 30-48 | 1C-1C | 19 | Ex7
6/19/13 | 246.6 | -1.7% | 114 | 73 | 99 | 122 | 10-10 | 0.5-0.5 | 28-46 | 1C-1C | 23 | Ex7
6/20/13 | 246.0 | -1.9% | 101 | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX


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ON SSRI interaction (off various forums -- owner of this page can't guarantee its accuracy -- this is not a medical advice -- ask your doctor for proper advice )

If you're referring to Serotonin Syndrome, which has a rapid onset, is in fact associated with SSRI's such as Zoloft and fortunately it is very rare (one death back in 1984) with most cases ending within 24hrs.Serotonin Syndrome is due to excess serotonin at the serotonin receptor 5-HT1A This receptor is found in multiple areas of the brain Except the Hypothalmus. I suppose anyone taking an SSRI such as Zoloft should be advised of the slim risk of Serotonin Syndrome.But, Belviq's mechanism works on a completely different receptor than SSRI's, the 5-HT2C receptor. It's action is completely different than SSRI's. According to the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists there is an unmeasurable and theoretical risk of that syndrome with belviq and the risk doesn't increase when Belviq is dosed with SSRI's. Qsymia on the other hand increases the risk of suicidal ideation and depression amongst other side effects.
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the 5-HT2C receptor is located in the Hypothalmus so Belviq acts on a completely different part of the brain than SSRI's.
~~~~~~
There is no evidence that Belviq significantly increases serotonin levels, although it does slightly inhibit metabolism of some drugs that boost serotonin. People get confused by the fact that Belviq is classified as a serotonin receptor agonist. This doesn't mean that it stimulates secretion of serotonin -- it means that it mimics serotonin in activating those receptors.

Although serotonin syndrome can be a very serious condition, it only becomes so after extended high exposure and could quickly be arrested by simply discontinuing the use of Belviq, if Belviq were the cause. Watching for it is a reasonable precaution to take for someone on a drug that could raise serotonin levels if not metabolized at a normal rate, but that doesn't mean that anyone on an SSRI shouldn't be given Belviq. In any case, this would apply mainly to use with antidepressants, not with anti-psychotics.
---
Although Dr. Vig's slide show contains a lot of good information, his coverage of serotonin syndrome is inaccurate. Some people have gotten upset with me for stating this, because he's an MD and I'm not, but wrong is wrong.

In the slide show narration, he says, "Since Belviq stimulates the serotonin receptor in the brain, you might get elevated levels of serotonin in the brain if you combine it with other medications that raise the serotonin level." But that's not accurate.

Serotonin receptors are not receptors that raise the level of serotonin. They are receptors that respond to serotonin. Belviq acts on a serotonergic pathway by stimulating a receptor that is also stimulated by serotonin, but the concern that this will raise serotonin levels is purely theoretical and is based mainly on the lack of trial data that could guide us on whether a real risk actually exists.

Almost all CNS agents carry a caution about the possibility of serotonin syndrome, because brain chemistry is complex and poorly understood, and serotonin syndrome can be very serious if untreated. If serotonin syndrome were to arise from initiating Belviq, it would happen within the first day or two of treatment and could be completely reversed by discontinuing the drug. So caution is warranted, but that does not mean that anyone taking an SSRI has to choose between their antidepressant and Belviq.
~~
Belviq is not an SSRI. It has no effect on serotonin re-uptake nor does it stimulate the release of serotonin. It has a mechanism of action that mainly activates just one subtype of serotonin receptor (5HT2C -- there are 7 types and over 20 subtypes), which actually inhibits the release of dopamine and norepinepherine in specific parts of the brain where those receptors are located.
~~~
I expect that the lorcaserin label will caution against use by people taking SSRI drugs like Prozac. In the Arena trials, subjects on SSRIs, or even who had taken them in the last year, were excluded. The reason for this is concern over a condition called serotonin syndrome which is essentially serotonin toxicity that can occur if serotonin levels are too high. This is a relatively rare condition and easily detected, and it can easily be reversed by simply discontinuing the serotonergic drugs. But it can be fatal if untreated, so it is a concern.

Under a doctor's care and monitoring, however, patients on Prozac could be given lorcaserin and then checked for symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which would occur soon after treatment began, and which does not quickly progress to a dangerous level under such conditions.

Prozac does sometimes cause weight loss, and the reason may be that its more generalized effect on serotonin levels hits the same receptor that lorcaserin activates. The difference is that lorcaserin is highly selective in its action.
~~~~

IN MY PRACTICE, I TALK WITH THE PATIENT TO SEE IF THE PATIENT WANTS TO TRY TO GET OFF THE SSRI ANTIDEPRESSANT IN ORDER TO TRY BELVIQ.... SOME PATIENTS ARE WILLING TO TRY THIS, AND SOME PATIENTS ARE NOT WILLING TO DO THIS.... A PATIENT ON PROZAC CAN SIMPLY STOP PROZAC AND NOT HAVE TO TAPER IT SLOWLY , SINCE PROZAC HAS SUCH A LONG HALF LIFE... A PATIENT ON PAXIL, FOR EXAMPLE, WHICH HAS A SHORT HALF LIFE, SHOULD TAPER THE PAXIL OVER AT LEAST A COUPLE OF WEEKS TO AVOID SSRI DISCONTINUATION SYNDROME, WHERE PATIENTS FEEL BAD FROM RAPID WITHDRAWAL OF THE SSRI AND MAY EVEN GET WHAT ARE CALLED "BRAIN ZAPS"...






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OFF LABEL

"If they ask for it, they will pay it. $200 a month for vanity is a small price to pay for many - especially females. Women spend more money every year on vanity than most people realize - makeup, hair, nails, special diets, gym memberships, breasts implants and other cosmetic procedures, clothes that make them "look smaller or sexy", shoes, et al. The list goes on and on. $200 a month to lose weight is a small price to pay relative to all the other vanity costs in a year. And by the way, many men fall into this category as well, not just women - they spend the money on other vanity items. Off label will be huge and there is a portion of the American society that can and will pay out of pocket every month."





FWIW off label use. (BELVIQ for quitting smoking, etc.)



My brother-in-law has been on Belviq 5 days


and says his craving to smoke is much lower. Smokes two packs a day and today said he smoked a pack and 4 cigarettes. Lost 2 lbs. I sure hope these off-label uses mushroom. If we can get 1 million chronic users that should be worth $50 pps.
Doc SPEAKS
I started offering prescriptions to our mostly nursing staff two days ago as a courtesy and only when I overheard them discussing weight loss techniques/problems, giving appropriate counseling etc. Five women asked for and received Rx's from me Monday and Tuesday. All were off label.

LOWER ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

In my case, it's less alcohol consumption, (wine).

When I eat less at dinner because I'm not as hungry, I drink a glass, (or two), less of wine. I'm sure that that was contributing to my pre-T2D condition.

And, even after dinner, I'd "nibble" on that bottle till it was finished- it was my form of "dessert".

Now, my appetite for "desserts" has gone way down and I find myself corking the bottle after dinner.

Empirical evidence for sure, but it's working for me.

OFF LABEL - BELVIQ FOR QUITTING SMOKING

I've added smoking cessation to prophylactic weight loss as off-label indications for prescribing Belviq. My first two patients on Belviq who were smokers have reported and (so officially "in my experience, patient after patient"experienced 50% overnight decrease in tobacco consumption alongside moderate weight loss and positive moods. Just a matter of time before this goes viral in the sports community eg body building, weight class sports etc








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