Despite the pill's apparent ability to help people lose weight, some critics expressed concerns because of the possible side effects.

CNN: FDA approves new diet drug

Separately, Vivus has now succumbed to shareholder pressure and begun holdings talks with large drugmakers to market its Qsymia diet pill, which has so far failed to live up to its promise, despite becoming the first commercially available prescription diet pill to be approved by the FDA in more than a decade.

FORBES: Will The Prescription Diet Pill Market Finally Bulk Up?

To some, this may appear to be a big plus for Vivus, which has so far failed to live up to its promise, despite selling what is the first commercially available prescription diet pill to be approved by the FDA in more than a decade.

FORBES: Vivus And Its Diet Pill Get A Needed Break, But Will This Make A Difference?

Its most promising new drug, the cholesterol pill Zetia, is not expected to really gain any significant steam this year despite co-promotion from Merck (nyse: MRK - news - people ).

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And despite what you may see advertised, I'm sorry to say there is no secret diet, mystery pill or overnight miracle that will do it for you.

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