Cosmetic drug and device maker Allergan Inc says it has received approval to market its stomach-shrinking Lap-Band to millions more patients who are less obese than those currently using the device.
The FDA expanded approval to patients with a body mass index between 30 and 40 and one weight-related medical condition, such as diabetes. Patients must also have previously attempted other weight loss strategies, like diet and exercise.
Allergan said roughly 37 million American patients meet the new criterion for the device. The adjustable band has been available in the US since 2001.
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[Source: MSNBC]
