June 27, 2012 -- For the first time in more than a decade, the FDA has approved a new drug to help people lose weight.

Today, Arena Pharmaceuticals' Belviq (lorcaserin hydrochloride) became the first prescription weight loss drug approved by federal regulators in 13 years.

The FDA approved Belviq as an addition to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise, for use in chronic weight control.

The approval is specifically for use in adults with a BMI above 30 (considered obese), and for adults with a BMI of 27 (considered overweight) or above if they also have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Belviq should not be used during pregnancy.

Today's move comes almost two years after the FDA refused to approve the drug, citing concerns about its safety and effectiveness.

But last May, an FDA advisory committee overwhelmingly endorsed making the drug available to people who are obese and those with health issues related to being overweight.

The drug's manufacturer will be required to conduct six post-marketing studies, including a long-term trial to look for heart attack and stroke risks, the FDA announced today.