Xenical
Information
XENICAL IS A PRESCRIPTION ITEM - YOUR DOCTOR'S PRESCRIPTION IS MANDATORYWeight Loss Medications Xenical (Orlistat) is used along with a doctor-approved reduced-calorie diet, exercise, and behavior modification program to help significantly overweight (obese) persons lose weight. Taking Xenical (Orlistat) can also help prevent you from regaining the weight you have lost. Losing weight and keeping it off can reduce the many health risks that come with obesity, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, some forms of cancer, certain breathing problems, and a shorter lifespan.
Dietary fats need to be broken down into smaller pieces before the body can absorb them. Xenical (Orlistat) works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down fats in your diet. This undigested fat then passes out of your body in your bowel movement. Xenical (Orlistat) does not block the absorption of calories from sugar and other non-fat foods, so you still need to restrict your total intake of calories.
Xenical (Orlistat) should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: digestive problems (chronic malabsorption syndrome), gall bladder problems (cholestasis). If you are diabetic, weight loss may improve your blood sugar control. Be sure to check your blood sugar regularly and tell your doctor the results. Your diet or medications may need to be adjusted.
Xenical
Side Effects
Changes in your bowel function frequently occur because of the unabsorbed fat. Fatty/oily stool, oily spotting, intestinal gas with discharge, a feeling of needing to have a bowel movement right away, increased number of bowel movements, or poor bowel control may occur. These side effects may get worse if you eat more fat than you should. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.