Xenical

Generic name: Orlistat

Why is Xenical prescribed?

Xenical blocks absorption of dietary fat into the bloodstream, thereby reducing the number of calories you get from a meal. At the usual dosage level, it cuts fat absorption by almost one-third. Combined with a low-calorie diet, it is used to promote weight loss and discourage the return of unwanted pounds.

The drug is prescribed for obese individuals and for overweight people who have other health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. Your weight status is determined by your body mass index (BMI), a comparison of height to weight.

Most important fact about Xenical

Along with dietary fat, Xenical decreases the absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins and beta-carotene. To compensate, it is strongly recommended that you take a multivitamin containing vitamins A, E, D, K, and beta-carotene once a day, at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking Xenical.

How should you take Xenical?

Take a capsule of Xenical during, or up to 1 hour after, each main meal. You should follow a nutritionally balanced, low-calorie diet that provides no more than 30 percent of its calories from fat. If you miss a meal, or the meal contains no fat, you can skip the accompanying dose of Xenical.

• If you miss a dose...
  Resume taking Xenical at the next meal. Don't try to make up the loss with a double dose. The extra drug won't help.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature, in a tightly sealed container.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects of Xenical are more common during the first year of treatment. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Xenical.

• Side effects may 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, gum problems, headache, increased defecation, menstrual problems, muscle pain, nausea, oily discharge, rectal discomfort or pain, respiratory tract infections, skin rash, sleep problems, tooth problems, urinary tract infections, vaginal inflammation, vomiting