FDA panel raises concerns over memory lapses seen with experimental weight loss drug

FDA panel worries about psych effects of diet pill

GAITHERSBURG, MD. — Federal health experts say they have concerns about a highly anticipated weight loss drug’s side effects on memory and concentration.

The panel of Food and Drug Administration advisers is scheduled to vote later this afternoon on whether to recommend approval for Vivus Inc.’s drug Qnexa.

The agency does not have to follow the group’s advice, though it often does.

Studies of Qnexa show the drug causes significant weight loss, with most patients losing more than ten percent of their weight. But patients also reported memory and attention lapses and trouble finding words.

The Mountain View, Calif., drugmaker is racing two other small California pharmaceutical companies to bring its weight-loss drug to the market.