As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 15, 2001 Registration No. 0-23490 SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM S-8 REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 VIVUS, INC. (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER) DELAWARE 2834 94-3136179 (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL (I.R.S. EMPLOYER INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION) CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER) IDENTIFICATION NUMBER) 1172 CASTRO STREET MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94040 (650) 934-5200 (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES) 2001 STOCK OPTION PLAN (FULL TITLE OF THE PLANS) LELAND F. WILSON PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER VIVUS, INC. 1172 CASTRO STREET MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94040 (650) 934-5200 (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF AGENT FOR SERVICE) Copies to: MARIO M. ROSATI, ESQ. MARK J. CASPER, ESQ. WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION 650 PAGE MILL ROAD PALO ALTO, CA 94304 APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: AS SOON AS PRACTICABLE AFTER THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT. IF ANY OF THE SECURITIES BEING REGISTERED ON THIS FORM ARE TO BE OFFERED ON A DELAYED OR CONTINUOUS BASIS PURSUANT TO RULE 415 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, CHECK THE FOLLOWING BOX. [X] ----------

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE ============================================================================================================= PROPOSED MAXIMUM PROPOSED TITLE OF EACH CLASS OF AMOUNT OFFERING MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF SECURITIES TO TO BE PRICE AGGREGATE REGISTRATION BE REGISTERED REGISTERED PER SHARE OFFERING PRICE FEE - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Common Stock, $0.001 par value, to be issued under the 2001 Stock Option Plan [1,000,000 shares(1)] $3.27 $3,270,000(2) $817.50 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL REGISTRATION FEES: $817.50 ============================================================================================================= (1) Represents shares of Common Stock which have become available for issuance under the Registrant's 2001 Stock Option Plan approved by the Board of Directors at a Meeting of the Board of Directors on October 15, 2001. The Registrant will solicit the approval of its stockholders of the Stock Option Plan at the Registrant's Annual Meeting in 2002. (2) The computation is based upon the average of the high and low price of the Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market on November 9, 2001 because the price at which the options to be granted in the future may be exercised is not currently determinable.

PART II INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ITEM 3. INFORMATION INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE. The following documents and information previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission are hereby incorporated by reference: (a) The Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, as filed pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), on March 26, 2001. (b) The Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2001, as filed pursuant to Section 13 (a) of the Exchange Act on November 13, 2001. (c) The description of the Common Stock of the Registrant that is contained in the Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act declared effective by the Commission on April 7, 1994, and any description of any securities of the Registrant which is contained in any registration statement filed after the date hereof under Section 12 of the Exchange Act, including any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating any such description. (d) The description of Common Stock and the Preferred Share Purchase Rights contained in the Company's Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed under the Exchange Act with the Commission that became effective on March 5, 1996. (e) All documents filed by the Registrant pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the filing of this Registration Statement and prior to the filing of a post-effective amendment which indicates that all securities offered have been sold or which deregisters all securities then remaining unsold, shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and to be part hereof from the date of filing of such documents. ITEM 4. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES. Not applicable. ITEM 5. INTERESTS OF NAMED EXPERTS AND COUNSEL. Mario M. Rosati, member of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation, is the Secretary of the Registrant. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is corporate counsel to the Registrant. ITEM 6. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. The Registrant has adopted provisions in its Certificate of Incorporation that eliminate the personal liability of its directors and officers for monetary damages arising from a breach of their fiduciary duties in certain circumstances to the fullest extent permitted by law and authorizes the Registrant to indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by law. Such limitation of liability does not affect the availability of equitable remedies such as injunctive relief or rescission. The Registrant's Bylaws provide that the Registrant shall indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of Delaware, including circumstances in which indemnification is otherwise discretionary under Delaware law. Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware provides for the indemnification of officers, directors and other corporate agents in terms sufficiently broad to indemnify such persons, under certain circumstances, for certain liabilities (including reimbursement of expenses incurred) arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"). The Registrant has entered into indemnification agreements to such effect with its officers and directors containing provisions which are in some respects broader than the specific indemnification provisions contained in the General Corporation Law of Delaware. The indemnification agreements may require the Company, among

other things, to indemnify such officers and directors against certain liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or officers (other than liabilities arising from willful misconduct of a culpable nature) and to advance their expenses incurred as a result of any proceeding against them as to which they could be indemnified. ITEM 7. EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION CLAIMED. Not applicable. ITEM 8. EXHIBITS. The Exhibits listed on the accompanying Index to Exhibits are filed as part hereof, or incorporated by reference into, this Registration Statement. (See Exhibit Index below). ITEM 9. UNDERTAKINGS. (a) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes: (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or any material change to such information in the Registration Statement. (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering. (b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be an initial bona fide offering thereof. (c) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-8 and has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of Mountain View, State of California on November 15, 2001. VIVUS, INC. By: /s/ RICHARD WALLISER ------------------------------------- Richard Walliser Vice President and Chief Financial Officer POWER OF ATTORNEY KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Leland F. Wilson and Richard Walliser, jointly and severally, their attorneys-in-fact, each with the power of substitution, for them in any and all capacities, to sign any amendments to this Registration Statement on Form S-8, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said attorneys-in-fact, or his substitute or substitutes, may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated. SIGNATURE TITLE DATE --------- ----- ---- /S/ LELAND F. WILSON President and Chief November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Executive Officer Leland F. Wilson /S/ VIRGIL A. PLACE Chairman of the Board November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Director and Chief Virgil A. Place Scientific Officer and Director /S/ RICHARD WALLISER Vice President of Finance November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ and, Chief Financial Richard Walliser Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) /S/ MARIO M. ROSATI Director and Secretary November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Mario M. Rosati /S/ GRAHAM STRACHAN Director November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Graham Strachan /S/ MARK B. LOGAN Director November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Mark B. Logan /S/ LINDA M. DAIRIKI SHORTLIFFE, M.D. Director November 15, 2001 - ------------------------------------ Linda M. Dairiki Shortliffe, M.D.

INDEX TO EXHIBITS EXHIBIT NUMBER EXHIBIT DOCUMENT -------------- ---------------- 5.1 Opinion of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation, as to the legality of securities being registered (Counsel to the Registrant) 10.44 2001 Stock Option Plan and Form of Agreement 23.1 Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP (Independent Accountants) 23.2 Consent of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation (contained in Exhibit 5.1 hereto) 24.1 Power of Attorney (see signature page)

[LETTERHEAD OF WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI] EXHIBIT 5.1 November 15, 2001 VIVUS, Inc. 1172 Castro Street Mountain View, CA 94040 (650) 934-5200 RE: REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-8 Ladies and Gentlemen: We have examined the Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed by you with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about November 15, 2001 (the "Registration Statement") in connection with the registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, of recently authorized shares to be issued under the 2001 Stock Option Plan (as to 1,000,000 shares) (the "Plan" and the "Shares" as appropriate). As your counsel in connection with this transaction, we have examined the proceedings taken and are familiar with the proceedings proposed to be taken by you in connection with the issuance and sale of the Shares pursuant to the Plan. It is our opinion that the Shares, when issued and sold in the manner described in the Plan and pursuant to the agreement that accompanies each grant under the Plan, will be legally and validly issued, fully-paid and non-assessable. We consent to the use of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, and further consent to the use of our name wherever appearing in the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto. Very truly yours, WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI Professional Corporation /s/ WILSON SONSINI GOODRICH & ROSATI

EXHIBIT 10.44 VIVUS, INC. 2001 STOCK OPTION PLAN 1. Purpose of the Plan. The purpose of this 2001 Stock Option Plan is to: - attract and retain the best available personnel for positions of substantial responsibility; - provide additional incentive to Employees, Directors and Consultants; and - promote the success of the Company's business. Options granted under the Plan may be Incentive Stock Options or Nonstatutory Stock Options, as determined by the Administrator at the time of grant. Stock Purchase Rights may also be granted under the Plan. 2. Definitions. As used herein, the following definitions shall apply: (a) "Administrator" means the Board or any of its Committees as shall be administering the Plan, in accordance with Section 4 of the Plan. (b) "Applicable Laws" means the requirements relating to the administration of stock option plans under U. S. state corporate laws, U.S. federal and state securities laws, the Code, any stock exchange or quotation system on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted and the applicable laws of any foreign country or jurisdiction where Options or Stock Purchase Rights are, or will be, granted under the Plan. (c) "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company. (d) "Change in Control" means the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) Any "person" (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) becomes the "beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the total voting power represented by the Company's then outstanding voting securities; (ii) The consummation of the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the Company's assets; (iii) A change in the composition of the Board occurring within a two-year period, as a result of which fewer than a majority of the Directors are Incumbent Directors. "Incumbent Directors" means Directors who either (A) are Directors as of the date hereof, or (B) are elected, or nominated for election, to the Board with the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the Incumbent Directors at the time of such election or nomination (but will not include an individual whose election or nomination is in connection with an actual or threatened proxy contest relating to the election of Directors to the Company); or 1

(iv) The consummation of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other corporation, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior thereto continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity or its parent) at least fifty percent (50%) of the total voting power represented by the voting securities of the Company or such surviving entity or its parent outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation. (e) "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. (f) "Committee" means a committee of Directors appointed by the Board in accordance with Section 4 of the Plan. (g) "Common Stock" means the Common Stock of the Company. (h) "Company" means VIVUS, Inc., a Delaware corporation. (i) "Consultant" means any natural person, including an advisor, engaged by the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary to render services to such entity. (j) "Director" means a member of the Board. (k) "Disability" means total and permanent disability as defined in Section 22(e)(3) of the Code. (l) "Employee" means any person, including Officers and Directors, employed by the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company. A Service Provider shall not cease to be an Employee in the case of (i) any leave of absence approved by the Company, or (ii) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company, its Parent, any Subsidiary, or any successor. For purposes of Incentive Stock Options, no such leave may exceed ninety (90) days, unless reemployment upon expiration of such leave is guaranteed by statute or contract. If reemployment upon expiration of a leave of absence approved by the Company is not so guaranteed, then three (3) months following the 91st day of such leave any Incentive Stock Option held by the Optionee shall cease to be treated as an Incentive Stock Option and shall be treated for tax purposes as a Nonstatutory Stock Option. Neither service as a Director nor payment of a director's fee by the Company shall be sufficient to constitute "employment" by the Company. (m) "Exchange Act" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. (n) "Fair Market Value" means, as of any date, the value of Common Stock determined as follows: (i) If the Common Stock is listed on any established stock exchange or a national market system, including without limitation the Nasdaq National Market or The Nasdaq SmallCap Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such stock (or the closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on such exchange or system on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable; 2

(ii) If the Common Stock is regularly quoted by a recognized securities dealer but selling prices are not reported, the Fair Market Value of a Share of Common Stock shall be the mean between the high bid and low ask prices for the Common Stock on the day of determination, as reported in The Wall Street Journal or such other source as the Administrator deems reliable; or (iii) In the absence of an established market for the Common Stock, the Fair Market Value shall be determined in good faith by the Administrator. (o) "Incentive Stock Option" means an Option intended to qualify as an incentive stock option within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder. (p) "Inside Director" means a Director who is an Employee. (q) "Nonstatutory Stock Option" means an Option not intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option. (r) "Notice of Grant" means a written or electronic notice evidencing certain terms and conditions of an individual Option or Stock Purchase Right grant. The Notice of Grant is part of the Option Agreement. (s) "Officer" means a person who is an officer of the Company within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. (t) "Option" means a stock option granted pursuant to the Plan. (u) "Option Agreement" means an agreement between the Company and an Optionee evidencing the terms and conditions of an individual Option grant. The Option Agreement is subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan. (v) "Option Exchange Program" means a program whereby outstanding Options are surrendered in exchange for Options with a lower exercise price. (w) "Optioned Stock" means the Common Stock subject to an Option or Stock Purchase Right. (x) "Optionee" means the holder of an outstanding Option or Stock Purchase Right granted under the Plan. (y) "Outside Director" means a Director who is not an Employee. (z) "Parent" means a "parent corporation," whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(e) of the Code. (aa) "Plan" means this 2001 Stock Option Plan. 3

(bb) "Restricted Stock" means shares of Common Stock acquired pursuant to a grant of Stock Purchase Rights under Section 11 of the Plan. (cc) "Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement" means a written agreement between the Company and the Optionee evidencing the terms and restrictions applying to stock purchased under a Stock Purchase Right. The Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement is subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and the Notice of Grant. (dd) "Rule 16b-3" means Rule 16b-3 of the Exchange Act or any successor to Rule 16b-3, as in effect when discretion is being exercised with respect to the Plan. (ee) "Section 16(b) " means Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. (ff) "Service Provider" means an Employee, Director or Consultant. (gg) "Share" means a share of the Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 14 of the Plan. (hh) "Stock Purchase Right" means the right to purchase Common Stock pursuant to Section 11 of the Plan, as evidenced by a Notice of Grant. (ii) "Subsidiary" means a "subsidiary corporation," whether now or hereafter existing, as defined in Section 424(f) of the Code. 3. Stock Subject to the Plan. Subject to the provisions of Section 14 of the Plan, the maximum aggregate number of Shares that may be optioned and sold under the Plan is One Million (1,000,000) Shares plus (a) any Shares that have been reserved but not issued under the Company's 1991 Incentive Stock Plan (the "1991 Plan") as of the date of stockholder approval of this Plan; (b) any Shares returned to the 1991 Plan as a result of termination of options or repurchase of Shares issued under the 1991 Plan; and (c) an annual increase to be added on the first day of the Company's fiscal year beginning in 2003, equal to the lesser of (i) one million (1,000,000) shares, (ii) two and one-half percent (2.5%) of the outstanding shares on such date, or (iii) a lesser amount determined by the Board. The Shares may be authorized, but unissued, or reacquired Common Stock. If an Option or Stock Purchase Right expires or becomes unexercisable without having been exercised in full, or is surrendered pursuant to an Option Exchange Program, the unpurchased Shares which were subject thereto shall become available for future grant or sale under the Plan (unless the Plan has terminated); provided, however, that Shares that have actually been issued under the Plan, whether upon exercise of an Option or Right, shall not be returned to the Plan and shall not become available for future distribution under the Plan, except that if Shares of Restricted Stock are repurchased by the Company at their original purchase price, such Shares shall become available for future grant under the Plan. 4

4. Administration of the Plan. (a) Procedure. (i) Multiple Administrative Bodies. Different Committees with respect to different groups of Service Providers may administer the Plan. (ii) Section 162(m). To the extent that the Administrator determines it to be desirable to qualify Options granted hereunder as "performance-based compensation" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, the Plan shall be administered by a Committee of two or more "Outside Directors" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code. (iii) Rule 16b-3. To the extent desirable to qualify transactions hereunder as exempt under Rule 16b-3, the transactions contemplated hereunder shall be structured to satisfy the requirements for exemption under Rule 16b-3. (iv) Other Administration. Other than as provided above, the Plan shall be administered by (A) the Board, or (B) a Committee, which committee shall be constituted to satisfy Applicable Laws. (b) Powers of the Administrator. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, and in the case of a Committee, subject to the specific duties delegated by the Board to such Committee, the Administrator shall have the authority, in its discretion: (i) to determine the Fair Market Value; (ii) to select the Service Providers to whom Options and Stock Purchase Rights may be granted hereunder; (iii) to determine the number of shares of Common Stock to be covered by each Option and Stock Purchase Right granted hereunder; (iv) to approve forms of agreement for use under the Plan; (v) to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, of any Option or Stock Purchase Right granted hereunder. Such terms and conditions include, but are not limited to, the exercise price, the time or times when Options or Stock Purchase Rights may be exercised (which may be based on performance criteria), any vesting acceleration or waiver of forfeiture restrictions, and any restriction or limitation regarding any Option or Stock Purchase Right or the shares of Common Stock relating thereto, based in each case on such factors as the Administrator, in its sole discretion, shall determine; (vi) to reduce the exercise price of any Option or Stock Purchase Right to the then current Fair Market Value if the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock covered by such Option or Stock Purchase Right shall have declined since the date the Option or Stock Purchase Right was granted; (vii) to institute an Option Exchange Program; 5

(viii) to construe and interpret the terms of the Plan and awards granted pursuant to the Plan; (ix) to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and regulations relating to the Plan, including rules and regulations relating to sub-plans established for the purpose of satisfying applicable foreign laws; (x) to modify or amend each Option or Stock Purchase Right (subject to Section 16(c) of the Plan), including the discretionary authority to extend the post-termination exercisability period of Options longer than is otherwise provided for in the Plan; (xi) to allow Optionees to satisfy withholding tax obligations by electing to have the Company withhold from the Shares to be issued upon exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right that number of Shares having a Fair Market Value equal to the minimum amount required to be withheld. The Fair Market Value of the Shares to be withheld shall be determined on the date that the amount of tax to be withheld is to be determined. All elections by an Optionee to have Shares withheld for this purpose shall be made in such form and under such conditions as the Administrator may deem necessary or advisable; (xii) to authorize any person to execute on behalf of the Company any instrument required to effect the grant of an Option or Stock Purchase Right previously granted by the Administrator; (xiii) to make all other determinations deemed necessary or advisable for administering the Plan. (c) Effect of Administrator's Decision. The Administrator's decisions, determinations and interpretations shall be final and binding on all Optionees and any other holders of Options or Stock Purchase Rights. 5. Eligibility. Nonstatutory Stock Options and Stock Purchase Rights may be granted to Service Providers. Incentive Stock Options may be granted only to Employees. 6. Limitations. (a) Each Option shall be designated in the Option Agreement as either an Incentive Stock Option or a Nonstatutory Stock Option. However, notwithstanding such designation, to the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value of the Shares with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by the Optionee during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and any Parent or Subsidiary) exceeds $100,000, such Options shall be treated as Nonstatutory Stock Options. For purposes of this Section 6(a), Incentive Stock Options shall be taken into account in the order in which they were granted. The Fair Market Value of the Shares shall be determined as of the time the Option with respect to such Shares is granted. (b) Neither the Plan nor any Option or Stock Purchase Right shall confer upon an Optionee any right with respect to continuing the Optionee's relationship as a Service Provider with the Company, nor shall they interfere in any way with the Optionee's right or the Company's right to terminate such relationship at any time, with or without cause. 6

(c) The following limitations shall apply to grants of Options: (i) No Service Provider shall be granted, in any fiscal year of the Company, Options to purchase more than one million (1,000,000) of the outstanding Shares on the date granted. (ii) In connection with his or her initial service, a Service Provider may be granted Options to purchase additional Shares up to an amount equal to one million (1,000,000) Shares, which shall not count against the limit set forth in subsection (i) above. (iii) The foregoing limitations shall be adjusted proportionately in connection with any change in the Company's capitalization as described in Section 14. (iv) If an Option is cancelled in the same fiscal year of the Company in which it was granted (other than in connection with a transaction described in Section 14), the cancelled Option will be counted against the limits set forth in subsections (i) and (ii) above. For this purpose, if the exercise price of an Option is reduced, the transaction will be treated as a cancellation of the Option and the grant of a new Option. 7. Term of Plan. Subject to Section 20 of the Plan, the Plan shall become effective upon its adoption by the Board. It shall continue in effect for a term of ten (10) years unless terminated earlier under Section 16 of the Plan. 8. Term of Option. The term of each Option shall be stated in the Option Agreement. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the term shall be ten (10) years from the date of grant or such shorter term as may be provided in the Option Agreement. Moreover, in the case of an Incentive Stock Option granted to an Optionee who, at the time the Incentive Stock Option is granted, owns stock representing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary, the term of the Incentive Stock Option shall be five (5) years from the date of grant or such shorter term as may be provided in the Option Agreement. 9. Option Exercise Price and Consideration. (a) Exercise Price. The per share exercise price for the Shares to be issued pursuant to exercise of an Option shall be determined by the Administrator, subject to the following: (i) In the case of an Incentive Stock Option (A) granted to an Employee who, at the time the Incentive Stock Option is granted, owns stock representing more than ten percent (10%) of the voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or any Parent or Subsidiary, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than 110% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant. (B) granted to any Employee other than an Employee described in paragraph (A) immediately above, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant. 7

(ii) In the case of a Nonstatutory Stock Option, the per Share exercise price shall be determined by the Administrator. In the case of a Nonstatutory Stock Option intended to qualify as "performance-based compensation" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, the per Share exercise price shall be no less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant. (iii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, Options may be granted with a per Share exercise price of less than 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant pursuant to a merger or other corporate transaction. (b) Waiting Period and Exercise Dates. At the time an Option is granted, the Administrator shall fix the period within which the Option may be exercised and shall determine any conditions that must be satisfied before the Option may be exercised. (c) Form of Consideration. The Administrator shall determine the acceptable form of consideration for exercising an Option, including the method of payment. In the case of an Incentive Stock Option, the Administrator shall determine the acceptable form of consideration at the time of grant. Such consideration may consist entirely of: (i) cash; (ii) check; (iii) promissory note; (iv) other Shares which, in the case of Shares acquired directly or indirectly from the Company, (A) have been owned by the Optionee for more than six (6) months on the date of surrender, and (B) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to which said Option shall be exercised; (v) consideration received by the Company under a cashless exercise program implemented by the Company in connection with the Plan; (vi) a reduction in the amount of any Company liability to the Optionee, including any liability attributable to the Optionee's participation in any Company-sponsored deferred compensation program or arrangement; (vii) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment; or (viii) such other consideration and method of payment for the issuance of Shares to the extent permitted by Applicable Laws. 10. Exercise of Option. (a) Procedure for Exercise; Rights as a Stockholder. Any Option granted hereunder shall be exercisable according to the terms of the Plan and at such times and under such conditions as determined by the Administrator and set forth in the Option Agreement. Unless the 8

Administrator provides otherwise, vesting of Options granted hereunder shall be suspended during any unpaid leave of absence. An Option may not be exercised for a fraction of a Share. An Option shall be deemed exercised when the Company receives: (i) written or electronic notice of exercise (in accordance with the Option Agreement) from the person entitled to exercise the Option, and (ii) full payment for the Shares with respect to which the Option is exercised. Full payment may consist of any consideration and method of payment authorized by the Administrator and permitted by the Option Agreement and the Plan. Shares issued upon exercise of an Option shall be issued in the name of the Optionee or, if requested by the Optionee, in the name of the Optionee and his or her spouse. Until the Shares are issued (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company), no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a stockholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option. The Company shall issue (or cause to be issued) such Shares promptly after the Option is exercised. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date the Shares are issued, except as provided in Section 14 of the Plan. Exercising an Option in any manner shall decrease the number of Shares thereafter available, both for purposes of the Plan and for sale under the Option, by the number of Shares as to which the Option is exercised. (b) Termination of Relationship as a Service Provider. If an Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider, other than upon the Optionee's death or Disability, the Optionee may exercise his or her Option within such period of time as is specified in the Option Agreement to the extent that the Option is vested on the date such Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement). In the absence of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for ninety (90) days following the date such Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider. If, on the date such Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider, the Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. If, after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified by the Administrator, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan. (c) Disability of Optionee. If an Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider as a result of the Optionee's Disability, the Optionee may exercise his or her Option within such period of time as is specified in the Option Agreement to the extent the Option is vested on the date of termination due to such Disability (but in no event later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement). In the absence of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following the termination due to Optionee's Disability. If, on the date of termination, the Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall revert to the Plan. If, after termination, the Optionee does not exercise his or her Option within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan. (d) Death of Optionee. If an Optionee dies while a Service Provider, the Option may be exercised following the Optionee's death within such period of time as is specified in the 9

Option Agreement to the extent that the Option is vested on the date of death (but in no event may the option be exercised later than the expiration of the term of such Option as set forth in the Option Agreement), by the Optionee's designated beneficiary, provided such beneficiary has been designated prior to Optionee's death in a form acceptable to the Administrator. If no such beneficiary has been designated by the Optionee, then such Option may be exercised by the personal representative of the Optionee's estate or by the person(s) to whom the Option is transferred pursuant to the Optionee's Will or in accordance with the laws of descent and distribution. In the absence of a specified time in the Option Agreement, the Option shall remain exercisable for twelve (12) months following Optionee's death. If, at the time of death, Optionee is not vested as to his or her entire Option, the Shares covered by the unvested portion of the Option shall immediately revert to the Plan. If the Option is not so exercised within the time specified herein, the Option shall terminate, and the Shares covered by such Option shall revert to the Plan. 11. Stock Purchase Rights. (a) Rights to Purchase. Stock Purchase Rights may be issued either alone, in addition to, or in tandem with other awards granted under the Plan and/or cash awards made outside of the Plan. After the Administrator determines that it will offer Stock Purchase Rights under the Plan, it shall advise the offeree in writing or electronically, by means of a Notice of Grant, of the terms, conditions and restrictions related to the offer, including the number of Shares that the offeree shall be entitled to purchase, the price to be paid, and the time within which the offeree must accept such offer. The offer shall be accepted by execution of a Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement in the form determined by the Administrator. (b) Repurchase Option. Unless the Administrator determines otherwise, the Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall grant the Company a repurchase option exercisable upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of the purchaser's service with the Company for any reason (including death or Disability). The purchase price for Shares repurchased pursuant to the Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall be the original price paid by the purchaser and may be paid by cancellation of any indebtedness of the purchaser to the Company. The repurchase option shall lapse at a rate determined by the Administrator. (c) Other Provisions. The Restricted Stock Purchase Agreement shall contain such other terms, provisions and conditions not inconsistent with the Plan as may be determined by the Administrator in its sole discretion. (d) Rights as a Stockholder. Once the Stock Purchase Right is exercised, the purchaser shall have the rights equivalent to those of a stockholder, and shall be a stockholder when his or her purchase is entered upon the records of the duly authorized transfer agent of the Company. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date the Stock Purchase Right is exercised, except as provided in Section 14 of the Plan. 12. Transferability of Options and Stock Purchase Rights. Unless otherwise determined by the Administrator, an Option or Stock Purchase Right may not be sold, pledged, assigned, hypothecated, transferred, or disposed of in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised, during the lifetime of the Optionee, only by the Optionee. If the Administrator makes an Option or Stock Purchase Right transferable, such Option or Stock 10

Purchase Right shall contain such additional terms and conditions as the Administrator deems appropriate. 13. Formula Option Grants to Outside Directors. All grants of Options to Outside Directors pursuant to this Section shall be automatic and nondiscretionary and shall be made strictly in accordance with the following provisions: (a) All Options granted pursuant to this Section shall be Nonstatutory Stock Options and, except as otherwise provided herein, shall be subject to the other terms and conditions of the Plan. (b) No person shall have any discretion to select which Outside Directors shall be granted Options under this Section or to determine the number of Shares to be covered by such Options. (c) Each person who first becomes an Outside Director following the effective date of this Plan, as determined in accordance with Section 7 hereof, shall be automatically granted an Option to purchase thirty two thousand (32,000) Shares (the "First Option") on the date on which such person first becomes an Outside Director, whether through election by the stockholders of the Company or appointment by the Board to fill a vacancy; provided, however, that an Inside Director who ceases to be an Inside Director but who remains a Director shall not receive a First Option. (d) Each Outside Director shall be automatically granted an Option to purchase eight thousand (8,000) Shares (a "Subsequent Option") on the date of the annual meeting of the stockholders of the Company, if as of such date, he or she shall have served on the Board for at least the preceding six (6) months. (e) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (c) and (d) hereof, any exercise of an Option granted before the Company has obtained stockholder approval of the Plan in accordance with Section 20 hereof shall be conditioned upon obtaining such stockholder approval of the Plan in accordance with Section 20 hereof. (f) The terms of each Option granted pursuant to this Section shall be as follows: (i) the term of the Option shall be ten (10) years. (ii) the exercise price per Share shall be 100% of the Fair Market Value per Share on the date of grant of the Option. (iii) subject to Section 14 hereof, the First Option shall vest and become exercisable as to twenty five percent (25%) of the Shares subject to the First Option on each anniversary of its date of grant, provided that the Optionee continues to serve as a Director on such dates. (iv) subject to Section 14 hereof, the Subsequent Option shall vest and become exercisable as to twelve and one-half percent (12.5%) of the Shares subject to the Subsequent Option on the first day of each month following its date of grant, provided that the Optionee continues to serve as a Director on such date. 11

14. Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization, Merger or Change in Control. (a) Changes in Capitalization. Subject to any required action by the stockholders of the Company, the number of shares of Common Stock that have been authorized for issuance under the Plan but as to which no Options or Stock Purchase Rights have yet been granted or which have been returned to the Plan upon cancellation or expiration of an Option or Stock Purchase Right, the number of Shares that may be added annually to the Plan pursuant to Section 3(i), the number of shares that may be granted pursuant to the automatic grant provisions of Section 13, and the number of shares of Common Stock as well as the price per share of Common Stock covered by each such outstanding Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be proportionately adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued shares of Common Stock effected without receipt of consideration by the Company; provided, however, that conversion of any convertible securities of the Company shall not be deemed to have been "effected without receipt of consideration." Such adjustment shall be made by the Board, whose determination in that respect shall be final, binding and conclusive. Except as expressly provided herein, no issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of shares of Common Stock subject to an Option or Stock Purchase Right. (b) Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the proposed dissolution or liquidation of the Company, the Administrator shall notify each Optionee as soon as practicable prior to the effective date of such proposed transaction. The Administrator in its discretion may provide for an Optionee to have the right to exercise his or her Option until ten (10) days prior to such transaction as to all of the Optioned Stock covered thereby, including Shares as to which the Option would not otherwise be exercisable. In addition, the Administrator may provide that any Company repurchase option applicable to any Shares purchased upon exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right shall lapse as to all such Shares, provided the proposed dissolution or liquidation takes place at the time and in the manner contemplated. To the extent it has not been previously exercised, an Option or Stock Purchase Right will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such proposed action. (c) Merger or Change in Control. In the event of a merger of the Company with or into another corporation, or a Change in Control, each outstanding Option and Stock Purchase Right shall be assumed or an equivalent option or right substituted by the successor corporation or a Parent or Subsidiary of the successor corporation. With respect to Options granted to an Outside Director pursuant to Section 13 that are assumed or substituted for, if following such assumption or substitution the Optionee's status as a Director or a director of the successor corporation, as applicable, is terminated other than upon a voluntary resignation by the Optionee, then the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable. In the event that the successor corporation refuses to assume or substitute for the Option or Stock Purchase Right, the Optionee shall fully vest in and have the right to exercise the Option or Stock Purchase Right as to all of the Optioned Stock, including Shares as to which it would not otherwise be vested or exercisable. If an Option or Stock Purchase Right becomes fully 12

vested and exercisable in lieu of assumption or substitution in the event of a merger or sale of assets, the Administrator shall notify the Optionee in writing or electronically that the Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be fully vested and exercisable for a period of fifteen (15) days from the date of such notice, and the Option or Stock Purchase Right shall terminate upon the expiration of such period. For the purposes of this subsection (c), the Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be considered assumed if, following the merger or Change in Control, the option or right confers the right to purchase or receive, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option or Stock Purchase Right immediately prior to the merger or Change in Control, the consideration (whether stock, cash, or other securities or property) received in the merger or Change in Control by holders of Common Stock for each Share held on the effective date of the transaction (and if holders were offered a choice of consideration, the type of consideration chosen by the holders of a majority of the outstanding Shares); provided, however, that if such consideration received in the merger or Change in Control is not solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent, the Administrator may, with the consent of the successor corporation, provide for the consideration to be received upon the exercise of the Option or Stock Purchase Right, for each Share of Optioned Stock subject to the Option or Stock Purchase Right, to be solely common stock of the successor corporation or its Parent equal in fair market value to the per share consideration received by holders of Common Stock in the merger or Change in Control. 15. Date of Grant. The date of grant of an Option or Stock Purchase Right shall be, for all purposes, the date on which the Administrator makes the determination granting such Option or Stock Purchase Right, or such other later date as is determined by the Administrator. Notice of the determination shall be provided to each Optionee within a reasonable time after the date of such grant. 16. Amendment and Termination of the Plan. (a) Amendment and Termination. The Board may at any time amend, alter, suspend or terminate the Plan. (b) Stockholder Approval. The Company shall obtain stockholder approval of any Plan amendment to the extent necessary and desirable to comply with Applicable Laws. (c) Effect of Amendment or Termination. No amendment, alteration, suspension or termination of the Plan shall impair the rights of any Optionee, unless mutually agreed otherwise between the Optionee and the Administrator, which agreement must be in writing and signed by the Optionee and the Company. Termination of the Plan shall not affect the Administrator's ability to exercise the powers granted to it hereunder with respect to Options granted under the Plan prior to the date of such termination. 17. Conditions Upon Issuance of Shares. (a) Legal Compliance. Shares shall not be issued pursuant to the exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right unless the exercise of such Option or Stock Purchase Right and the issuance and delivery of such Shares shall comply with Applicable Laws and shall be further subject to the approval of counsel for the Company with respect to such compliance. 13

(b) Investment Representations. As a condition to the exercise of an Option or Stock Purchase Right, the Company may require the person exercising such Option or Stock Purchase Right to represent and warrant at the time of any such exercise that the Shares are being purchased only for investment and without any present intention to sell or distribute such Shares if, in the opinion of counsel for the Company, such a representation is required. 18. Inability to Obtain Authority. The inability of the Company to obtain authority from any regulatory body having jurisdiction, which authority is deemed by the Company's counsel to be necessary to the lawful issuance and sale of any Shares hereunder, shall relieve the Company of any liability in respect of the failure to issue or sell such Shares as to which such requisite authority shall not have been obtained. 19. Reservation of Shares. The Company, during the term of this Plan, will at all times reserve and keep available such number of Shares as shall be sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the Plan. 20. Stockholder Approval. The Plan shall be subject to approval by the stockholders of the Company within twelve (12) months after the date the Plan is adopted. Such stockholder approval shall be obtained in the manner and to the degree required under Applicable Laws. 14

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT VIVUS, INC. 2001 STOCK OPTION PLAN STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms defined in the 2001 Stock Option Plan shall have the same defined meanings in this Stock Option Agreement. I. NOTICE OF STOCK OPTION GRANT [OPTIONEE'S NAME AND ADDRESS] You have been granted an option to purchase Common Stock of the Company, subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option Agreement, as follows: Grant Number ____________________________________ Date of Grant ____________________________________ Vesting Commencement Date ____________________________________ Exercise Price per Share $___________________________________ Total Number of Shares Granted ____________________________________ Total Exercise Price $___________________________________ Type of Option: ___ Incentive Stock Option ___ Nonstatutory Stock Option Term/Expiration Date: ____________________________________ Vesting Schedule: This Option shall be exercisable, in whole or in part, in accordance with the following schedule: [TO BE DETERMINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE 2001 STOCK OPTION PLAN]. 1

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT Termination Period: This Option may be exercised for ninety (90) days after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider. Upon the death or Disability of the Optionee, this Option may be exercised for twelve (12) months after Optionee ceases to be a Service Provider. In no event shall this Option be exercised later than the Term/Expiration Date as provided above. II. AGREEMENT A. Grant of Option The Plan Administrator of the Company hereby grants to the Optionee named in the Notice of Grant attached as Part I of this Agreement (the "Optionee") an option (the "Option") to purchase the number of Shares, as set forth in the Notice of Grant, at the exercise price per share set forth in the Notice of Grant (the "Exercise Price"), subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan, which is incorporated herein by reference. Subject to Section 16(c) of the Plan, in the event of a conflict between the terms and conditions of the Plan and the terms and conditions of this Option Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall prevail. If designated in the Notice of Grant as an Incentive Stock Option ("ISO"), this Option is intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock Option under Section 422 of the Code. However, if this Option is intended to be an Incentive Stock Option, to the extent that it exceeds the $100,000 rule of Code Section 422(d) it shall be treated as a Nonstatutory Stock Option ("NSO"). B. Exercise of Option. (a) Right to Exercise. This Option is exercisable during its term in accordance with the Vesting Schedule set out in the Notice of Grant and the applicable provisions of the Plan and this Option Agreement. (b) Method of Exercise. This Option is exercisable by delivery of an exercise notice, in the form attached as Exhibit A (the "Exercise Notice"), which shall state the election to exercise the Option, the number of Shares in respect of which the Option is being exercised (the "Exercised Shares"), and such other representations and agreements as may be required by the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Plan. The Exercise Notice shall be completed by the Optionee and delivered to the Human Resources Department of the Company. The Exercise Notice shall be accompanied by payment of the aggregate Exercise Price as to all Exercised Shares. This Option shall be deemed to be exercised upon receipt by the Company of such fully executed Exercise Notice accompanied by such aggregate Exercise Price. No Shares shall be issued pursuant to the exercise of this Option unless such issuance and exercise complies with Applicable Laws. Assuming such compliance, for income tax purposes the Exercised Shares shall be considered transferred to the Optionee on the date the Option is exercised with respect to such Exercised Shares. 2

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT C. Method of Payment. Payment of the aggregate Exercise Price shall be by any of the following, or a combination thereof, at the election of the Optionee: 1. cash; or 2. check; or 3. consideration received by the Company under a formal cashless exercise program implemented by the Company in connection with the Plan; or 4. to the extent permitted by the Administrator, delivery of a properly executed exercise notice together with such other documentation as the Administrator and the broker, if applicable, shall require to effect an exercise of the Option and delivery to the Company of the sale proceeds required to pay the Exercise Price. D. Non-Transferability of Option. This Option may not be transferred in any manner otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution and may be exercised during the lifetime of Optionee only by the Optionee. The terms of the Plan and this Option Agreement shall be binding upon the executors, administrators, heirs, successors and assigns of the Optionee. E. Term of Option. This Option may be exercised only within the term set out in the Notice of Grant, and may be exercised during such term only in accordance with the Plan and the terms of this Option Agreement. F. Tax Obligations. (a) Withholding Taxes. Optionee agrees to make appropriate arrangements with the Company (or the Parent or Subsidiary employing or retaining Optionee) for the satisfaction of all Federal, state, local and foreign income and employment tax withholding requirements applicable to the Option exercise. Optionee acknowledges and agrees that the Company may refuse to honor the exercise and refuse to deliver Shares if such withholding amounts are not delivered at the time of exercise. (b) Notice of Disqualifying Disposition of ISO Shares. If the Option granted to Optionee herein is an ISO, and if Optionee sells or otherwise disposes of any of the Shares acquired pursuant to the ISO on or before the later of (1) the date two years after the Date of Grant, or (2) the date one year after the date of exercise, the Optionee shall immediately notify the Company in writing of such disposition. Optionee agrees that Optionee may be subject to income tax withholding by the Company on the compensation income recognized by the Optionee. 3

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT G. Entire Agreement; Governing Law. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Plan and this Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Optionee with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Optionee's interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Optionee. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding its conflict of laws provision. NO GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED SERVICE. OPTIONEE ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE VESTING OF SHARES PURSUANT TO THE VESTING SCHEDULE HEREOF IS EARNED ONLY BY CONTINUING AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT THE WILL OF THE COMPANY (AND NOT THROUGH THE ACT OF BEING HIRED, BEING GRANTED AN OPTION OR PURCHASING SHARES HEREUNDER). OPTIONEE FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THIS AGREEMENT, THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREUNDER AND THE VESTING SCHEDULE SET FORTH HEREIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED PROMISE OF CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT AS A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE VESTING PERIOD, FOR ANY PERIOD, OR AT ALL, AND SHALL NOT INTERFERE WITH OPTIONEE'S RIGHT OR THE COMPANY'S RIGHT TO TERMINATE OPTIONEE'S RELATIONSHIP AS A SERVICE PROVIDER AT ANY TIME, WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE. 4

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT By your signature and the signature of the Company's representative below, you and the Company agree that this Option is granted under and governed by the terms and conditions of the Plan and this Option Agreement. Optionee has reviewed the Plan and this Option Agreement in their entirety, has had an opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel prior to executing this Option Agreement and fully understands all provisions of the Plan and Option Agreement. Optionee hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive and final all decisions or interpretations of the Administrator upon any questions relating to the Plan and Option Agreement. Optionee further agrees to notify the Company upon any change in the residence address indicated below. OPTIONEE: VIVUS, INC. - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Signature By - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Print Name Title - ----------------------------------- Residence Address - ----------------------------------- 5

EXHIBIT A VIVUS, INC. 2001 STOCK OPTION PLAN EXERCISE NOTICE VIVUS, INC. 1172 CASTRO STREET MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94040 Attention: Human Recourses Department 1. Exercise of Option. Effective as of today, ________________, _____, the undersigned ("Purchaser") hereby elects to purchase ______________ shares (the "Shares") of the Common Stock of VIVUS, INC. (the "Company") under and pursuant to the 2001 Stock Option Plan (the "Plan") and the Stock Option Agreement dated, ____________________ (the "Option Agreement"). Subject to adjustment, if any, in accordance with Section [14] of the Plan, the purchase price for the Shares shall be $________________, as required by the Option Agreement. 2. Delivery of Payment. Purchaser herewith delivers to the Company the full purchase price for the Shares. 3. Representations of Purchaser. Purchaser acknowledges that Purchaser has received, read and understood the Plan and the Option Agreement and agrees to abide by and be bound by their terms and conditions. 4. Rights as Shareholder. Until the issuance (as evidenced by the appropriate entry on the books of the Company or of a duly authorized transfer agent of the Company) of the Shares, no right to vote or receive dividends or any other rights as a shareholder shall exist with respect to the Optioned Stock, notwithstanding the exercise of the Option. The Shares so acquired shall be issued to the Optionee as soon as practicable after exercise of the Option. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right for which the record date is prior to the date of issuance, except as provided in Section 14 of the Plan. 5. Tax Consultation. Purchaser understands that Purchaser may suffer adverse tax consequences as a result of Purchaser's purchase or disposition of the Shares. Purchaser represents that Purchaser has consulted with any tax consultants Purchaser deems advisable in connection with the purchase or disposition of the Shares and that Purchaser is not relying on the Company for any tax advice.

FORM OF STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT 6. Entire Agreement; Governing Law. The Plan and Option Agreement are incorporated herein by reference. This Agreement, the Plan and the Option Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede in their entirety all prior undertakings and agreements of the Company and Purchaser with respect to the subject matter hereof, and may not be modified adversely to the Purchaser's interest except by means of a writing signed by the Company and Purchaser. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding its conflict of laws provision. Submitted by: Accepted by: PURCHASER: VIVUS, INC. - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Signature By - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Print Name Its Address: Address: - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ - ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ Date Received 2

EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our reports (and to all references to our Firm) included in or made a part of this registration statement. /s/ Arthur Andersen, LLP San Jose, CA November 15, 2001.