How Do Serotonin 5-HT2C Receptor Agonists Work?

Serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonists are a class of drugs mainly prescribed for weight loss in adjunct to calorie-restricted diet and exercise.

5-HT2C receptors are mainly found in the hypothalamus region of the brain. It is one of the many binding sites for the neurohormone serotonin. Activation of 5-HT2C receptors by serotonin inhibits dopamine and norepinephrine release in particular areas of the brain and thus regulates:

• Mood
• Anxiety
• Feeding
• Reproductive behavior

Stimulation of 5-HT2C receptors can promote early satiety and reduction in food consumption. Hence, by selectively activating 5-HT2C receptors, serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonists facilitate weight loss in obese people.

By activating 5-HT2C receptors, serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonists facilitate weight loss in:

People with a BMI of more than 30 kg/m²

Overweight people with other comorbidities

Side effects of serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonists may include:

• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Back pain
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Rash
• Urinary tract infection
• Hypersensitivity

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonists include:

• Lorcaserin (Bleviq, Belviq XR): This drug was discontinued from the market in the United States in 2020 due to an increased risk of cancer.

Always consult your doctor before taking any weight loss drugs to know about their safety.