Orexigen Therapeutics’ data shows its experimental diet pill appears effective in helping some patients lose weight, although some safety issues are still a concern, US reviewers said.

Results from company trials found that at least 35 per cent of patients given the drug, called Contrave, lost at least 5 per cent of their weight, US Food and Drug Administration staff said in documents released ahead of a Tuesday meeting to consider the pill.

FDA staff also noted several areas of safety concern, including the drug's effect on heart risks, seizures and psychiatric effects such as suicidal behavior. – Reuters