The rumor is that VVUS DID NOT get a thumbs up. If this is the case, then what happened with ARNA is simply an overreaction because investors might be thinking that the FDA has little faith in the metabolic drug category given the past phen-fen debacle. They just looked at Qnexa's efficacy, and salivated. Now the idea is why would the FDA approve ARNA if a more efficacious drug got booted?
There are many more things to look into than efficacy. I like Lorcaserin's side effects profile. I also like how the drug works.
People simply do not understand the differences in the two drugs; Lorcaserin vs. Qnexa.... VERY DIFFERENT mechanisms of action.
If VVUS gets the boot because more data is needed, etc. then game is on for ARNA. This leaves ARNA in the spotlight for 2010 as THE OBESITY DRUG CANDIDATE.
If VVUS had an approval, then money left ARNA to join the bandwagon. If this is the case, the market is large enough for both Qnexa and Lorcaserin.