Lorcaserin: Difference between revisions
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==Mechanism of action== | ==Mechanism of action== | ||
Lorcaserin is a selective [[5-HT2C receptor|5-HT<sub>2C</sub> receptor]] [[agonist]] and ''in vitro'' testing of the drug showed reasonable selectivity for 5-HT<sub>2C</sub> over other related targets. | Lorcaserin is a selective [[5-HT2C receptor|5-HT<sub>2C</sub> receptor]] [[agonist]] and ''in vitro'' testing of the drug showed reasonable selectivity for 5-HT<sub>2C</sub> over other related targets. | ||
5-HT<sub>2C</sub> receptors are located almost exclusively in the brain, and can also be found in the [[choroid plexus]], [[Cerebral cortex|cortex]], [[hippocampus]], [[cerebellum]], [[amygdala]], [[thalamus]], and [[hypothalamus]]. | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Revision as of 02:36, 28 June 2012
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Lorcaserin is a weight-loss drug developed by Arena Pharmaceuticals. It has serotonergic properties and acts as an anorectic. On 27 June 2012, the FDA officially approved lorcaserin for use in the treatment of obesity for adults with a BMI equal to or greater than 30 or adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who "have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol".
Mechanism of action
Lorcaserin is a selective 5-HT2C receptor agonist and in vitro testing of the drug showed reasonable selectivity for 5-HT2C over other related targets.
5-HT2C receptors are located almost exclusively in the brain, and can also be found in the choroid plexus, cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, amygdala, thalamus, and hypothalamus.