Lorcaserin is a serotonin 2C receptor agonist used in conjunction with physical activity and calorie restriction for weight loss in obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 and above, and in overweight patients with weight-related comorbidities. Lorcaserin (previously APD-356), a highly selective 5HT2C receptor agonist, is used for the treatment of obesity.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed to involve the selective activation of 5-HT2C receptors in the anorexigenic pro-opiomelanocortin neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. This results in decreased food intake and satiety by promoting the release of alpha-melanocortin stimulating hormone, which acts on melanocortin-4 receptors.
- Primary indication
- For the treatment of obesity, as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.Curator reviewed · 1 structured indication
- Formula / weight
- C11H14ClN · 195.69 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- United States, 2012
- Also known as
- Lorqess
Resolves to
XTTZERNUQAFMOF-QMMMGPOBSA-NSMILESC[C@H]1CNCCC2=CC=C(Cl)C=C12What you can answer from here — as of September 29, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Lorcaserin, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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