The first few times I read this I thought it said Virus. That about sums up my credibility as a health news reporter, but that won’t stop me from filling this post full of judgementalism and negativity. After all, that’s what news is about, no?
Vivus shares are rallying yet again, continuing their big surge this year, as investors applaud FDA approval of the company’s weight-loss drug Qsymia. – Steven Russolillo, Markets Pulse, The Wall Street Journal
It’s all well and good that Vivus shares are rallying. WSJ suggests its time to take profits. I agree; take the money and run. Every new miracle drug turns out to be too good to be true.
Our medical advisers say the pill should be avoided because it can cause several serious side effects. – Steve Mitchell, Consumer Reports
In studies, obese and overweight people who took Qsymia for one year lost 3.5 to 9.3 more pounds than those who took a placebo. But that small benefit is probably not worth the risks of birth defects, heart attacks, and strokes. – Steve Mitchell, Consumer Reports
Some miracle; less than 10 pounds per year? I have friends who have lost 10 pounds of fat in a month. I have friends who can lose 10 pounds of water in a day. Unless this study was with an astronomical sample size, why is anyone getting excited about such measly results? I find them underwhelming to say the least.
If there’s really people out there struggling so badly with weight loss that they’re willing to risk birth defects, heart attacks and strokes for a few pounds per year, please message me at geoff@healthymindheartbody.com and let’s have a serious heart-to-heart. Weight loss is not about pills. Go outside for a walk then send me an e-mail.
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