The FDA Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee has recommended Vivus’ adult obesity drug Qnexa be granted marketing approval by the FDA.

The committee voted 20 to 2, on the recommendation for an approval based on a favorable benefit/risk profile.

"We are pleased with the panel's approval recommendation in support of the safety and efficacy of Qnexa," said Peter Tam, president of Vivus. "We look forward to working with the FDA as they complete their evaluation. Obesity is a serious medical condition, and we are committed to making Qnexa available and providing physicians with a new medical treatment option in their battle with this public health epidemic."

The FDA is not bound by the recommendations of its advisory committees, but will consider the guidance during the review of the New Drug Application for Qnexa. The scheduled Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date for Qnexa is April 17, 2012.