Weight loss drugs & Weight loss supplements - Orlistat

Orlistat is an intestinal lipase inhibitor that causes peripheral action in gastrointestinal tract. In simple words, this means Orlistat reduces fat absorption in the intestine – 30% of fat eaten is malabsorbed. The fats in the diet have to be broken down into smaller pieces before the body is able to process and subsequently store them. Orlistat works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down fats in the diet. This undigested fat then passes out of the body in the bowel movement. However, Orlistat is not able to block the absorption of calories from sugar and other non-fat foods, so total intake of calories would still need to be restricted. It should also be noted here that Orlistat can cause gastrointestinal problems and the user must strictly be on a low-fat, reduced calorie diet to prevent them.

Studies have shown that Orlistat is capable of producing 70% more fat loss than an intensive lifestyle program alone. Orlistat is associated with reductions in cholesterol over that to be expected with weight loss, falls in blood pressure and serum triglycerides, as well as improvements in insulin sensitivity. Taking Orlistat can also help prevent the user from regaining the weight he or she had lost.

Absorption of fat soluble vitamins like A, D, E & K may be compromised with long term usage, but levels of these vitamins remain in the normal range after four years of treatment with Orlistat. However, to be on the safer side, it would be advisable to take a multivitamin supplement at night after a year of treatment, to compensate for any issues.

Use of this drug is indicated is indicated for obese patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 or ≥ 27 kg/m2 in the presence of other risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia).

The common gastrointestinal adverse effects include Oily Spotting, Flatus with Discharge, Fecal Urgency, Fatty/Oily Stool, Oily Evacuation, Increased Defecation and Fecal Incontinence.

Please note that this posting does not include all possible adverse effects. Therefore, before using Orlistat, check with your doctor and inform him/her about all the medications you are taking.