Orlistat is the ‘Generic' name. Pharmaceutical companies may market or sell this drug under this generic name or under their own name (Brand name or Trade name) for the product.
The trade name for orlistat is Xenical.
What is the medication orlistat used to treat?
Orlistat is a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor used to treat obesity. Orlistat is prescribed for the obese and for merely overweight individuals who have other health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. In combination with a low-calorie diet, orlistat is used to promote weight loss and discourage the return of unwanted pounds.
Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of dietary fat into the bloodstream, thereby reducing the number of calories a person can get from a meal. At the usual dosage level, orlistat cuts fat absorption by almost one-third.
What should be known before using the medication orlistat for weight loss?
Some medicines and/or medical conditions may interact with orlistat. A physician and/or pharmacist should be informed of all prescription and over-the-counter medicines that a person is taking
Use of orlistat is not recommended if the person has a history of malabsorption syndrome or gallbladder conditions.
Along with dietary fat, orlistat decreases the absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins and beta-carotene. It is recommended that a multivitamin containing vitamins A, E, D, and K be taken once a day at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after orlistat to compensate.
It is unknown if orlistat is excreted in breast milk. Typically if a person is to begin breast feeding while on orlistat, they should check with their physician or pharmacist to discuss the risks to the baby.
What are the directions for taking orlistat for weight loss?
Follow the directions for using orlistat provided by the physician. Orlistat should be taken with a meal or up to 1 hour after each meal that contains fat (3 times daily). The person's daily fat intake should be divided equally between these three meals so they will receive the maximum benefit from orlistat. Taking orlistat with low-fat meals may lessen the side effects that can occur. It is recommended that orlistat be swallowed with water. Orlistat should be stored at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and heat.
What precautions should be taken while using orlistat for weight loss?
Do not exceed the recommended dose or take orlistat for longer than prescribed without checking with the prescribing physician. Exceeding the recommended dose or taking orlistat for a longer period of time than prescribed may cause serious side effects.
Before taking any new medication, either prescription or nonprescription, a physician or pharmacist should be consulted. All physician and laboratory appointments should be kept by the patient while taking orlistat.
If the person has diabetes, orlistat may affect the blood sugar. Blood sugar levels should be monitored closely while a person is taking orlistat.
Orlistat may increase the likelihood of kidney stones. A person should use caution while taking orlistat if they have a history of kidney stones.
What are some of the possible side effects of orlistat?
Some common side effects that may occur with orlistat include abdominal discomfort or pain, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, diarrhea, dizziness, earache, fatigue, fatty or oily stools, fecal urgency or incontinence, flu, gas with fecal discharge, increased defecation, menstrual problems, muscle pain, oily discharge, rectal discomfort or pain, respiratory tract infections, skin rash, urinary tract infections, vaginal inflammation, and vomiting.
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, it is best for the person to inform the physician as soon as possible. Only the physician should determine if it is safe for the patient to continue taking orlistat.
What are some of the other medications that have been shown to interact with orlistat?
It is important to check with a physician before combining orlistat with cyclosporine (Neoral and Sandimmue) or Warfarin (Coumadin).
Additional Information on orlistat for weight loss
Orlistat, like any other medication should not be shared with others. Do not use orlistat for other health conditions. Keep orlistat out the reach of children.
Disclaimer
The contents of Weight Awareness are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or another qualified health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Our goal at Weight Awareness is to inform, not to diagnose or treat.
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