Type: Gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor
Active ingredient: Orlistat
Common use: Xenical is a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor. It is chiefly used combined with a reduced-calorie diet to treat obesity in patients aged 12 and older. It can be used both during the weight loss phase and after the weight loss phase (to assist in weight management). Xenical inhibits the digestion of fast from the diet.
How to use: Unless otherwise ordered by your doctor, take Xenical up to an hour after each meal that contains fat. Do not take Xenical more frequently than three times a day. Do not take Xenical after a meal that did not contain any fat.
Vitamin supplements should not be taken closer to 2 hours before or after a dose of Xenical.
If you miss a dose of Xenical, do not take two doses at once or near each other in time to compensate for the missed dose.
How to store: Store Xenical at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, and keep away from heat, light and moisture.
Warnings:
- Do not take Xenical of you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction to Xenical, such as trouble breathing, swelling, dizziness, rash or itching.
- Never take more than the prescribed dose of Xenical. Taking more than the prescribed dose will not help you lose weight quicker.
- The risk of certain side-effects is increased by eating meals that are rich in fat.
- Since Xenical will reduce your absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, your doctor will most likely prescribe a vitamin supplement for you. It is important to take this supplement even if you do not feel like you are suffering from any deficiency.
- Keep all doctor appointments and laboratory appointments while being treated with Xenical.
- Do not take any prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine or alternative medicine without checking with your doctor first. This includes medicines and herbal treatments used for weight loss or weight management.
- If you have diabetes, Xenical may affect your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar vigilantly.
- Using Xenical is not recommended during pregnancy.
- It is unknown if Xenical is excreted in breast milk or how the reduced fat-absorption can affect the composition of the breast milk. Discuss the benefits and risks of using Xenical while breastfeeding with your doctor.
Examples of reported side-effects:
- Oily stools
- Increased number of bowel movements
- Bowel movement urgency
- Poor bowel movement control
- Gas
- Gas with discharge
- Vitamin deficiency