Orlistat Medication Information
Information currant as of January 24 2006 by FDA
What is Orlistat used for?
Orlistat is used to help obese people who fit certain weight and height requirements lose weight and maintain weight loss. Orlistat works in your intestines, where it blocks some of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This undigested fat is then eliminated in your bowel movements. Use Orlistat together with a reduced-calorie diet. The weight management effects of Orlistat continue only as long as you are taking it.
Who should not take Orlistat?
You cannot take Orlistat if you:
have problems absorbing food
have gallbladder problems
are pregnant, or breast-feeding a child
People with certain kidney problems may not be able to take Orlistat.
General Precautions with Orlistat:
Your daily intake of fat should be evenly divided over 3 main meals.
Orlistat can decrease the absorption some fat-soluble vitamins and beta-carotene. Therefore when being treated with Orlistat, take a multivitamin supplement that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your multivitamin once a day at least 2 hours before or after taking Orlistat, such as bedtime.
Review all medications that you are taking with your health care provider, including those that you take without a prescription. If you are taking cyclosporine you may have to be monitored more closely.
If you are diabetic, Orlistat may affect your blood sugar control. See your doctor regularly for monitoring and treatment adjustments.
What should I tell my doctor or health care provider?
Tell your health care provider if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of Orlistat? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Orlistat. Your health care provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)
Oily spotting
Gas with discharge
Urgent need to have a bowel movement
Oily or fatty stools
Oily discharge
Increased number of bowel movements
Inability to control bowel movements
For more detailed information about Orlistat, ask your health care provider.
| Orlistat® | |
| Brand Name: | xenical® |
| Active Ingredient: | orlistat |
| Strength(s): | 120 mg |
| Dosage Form(s): | Capsule |
| Company Name: | Roche Laboratories, Inc. |
| Availability: | Prescription only |
| *Date Approved by FDA: | April 23, 1999 |
| *Approval by FDA does not mean that the drug is available to consumers at this time. | |