OBJECTIVES : Assess the real-world utilization of lorcaserin, an oral serotonin 2C receptor agonist approved in the U.S. as adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity

METHODS : A retrospective chart review was performed using records from the Center for Weight Management at the Scripps Clinic. Patients were identified if they had ≥1 lorcaserin prescription and were ≥ 18 years old on the first prescription date (index). Data was collected up to one-year pre- and post-index. Demographic and baseline data were examined in the pre-index period. Weight change at 90 days and discontinuation reasons were assessed for patients with ≥1 day utilization. Patients with ≥5% weight loss at 90 days were defined as “responders.”

RESULTS : A total of 157 patients were included. Mean age was 53 years old and 74% were female. Mean baseline weight was 102kg and mean baseline BMI was 36. Overall, 118 (75%) patients filled a prescription and 69 (58%) remained on lorcaserin ≥90 days (median follow-up=306 days). For those with follow-up weight information, mean 90-day weight loss was -3.5kg (-4%). Mean 90-day weight loss for responders (n=24, 37%) was -7kg (-7%), versus -1kg (-2%) for non-responders (n=41). Total one-year weight loss for responders was -8kg (-8%). For those discontinuing before 90 days (n=49, 42%), most common reasons were side effects (55%), cost (10%) and lack of effectiveness (10%).

CONCLUSIONS : These results demonstrate that patients who responded to lorcaserin continued to lose weight throughout the one-year follow-up. This result is similar to post-hoc analyses of responders from clinical trials. These results are "real world" in a group of insurance-based patients with obesity and related comorbidities. Weight loss programs can use lorcaserin and expect significant weight loss when used according to the label.