MSD reveals ‘promising’ weight-loss drug

Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has revealed that its experimental weight-loss drug taranabant has demonstrated clinical promise but was continuing to show adverse effects.

Scientists at Merck Research confirmed that current trials investigating the efficacy and safety of the drug found it successful in reducing weight in patients, reports Earth Times.

Over 350 patients took part in a four-month study and they demonstrated an average weight loss of 11 pounds when administered with taranabant 6mg compared to the placebo group who lost 2.6 pounds.

However, patients receiving larger doses of the drug had significant gastrointestinal and psychiatric problem, scientists report.

Over half of the 6mg group complained of nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea while just over a quarter of the group had psychiatric issues like anxiety and mood swing.

Dr Steven Heymsfield, global director of scientific affairs at Merck Research, confirmed that no suicidal tendencies had been observed in patients taking part in the study.

However study report authors wrote: “Although the trends in these and related factors were small and not statistically reliable, any increase in incidence would have potentially immense clinical significance when multiplied across a potential patient population of many millions.”

Last month, MSD welcomed Harry Jacobson, vice-chancellor for health affairs at Vanderbilt University, as its newest member of its board of directors.