Xenical
Generic Name:
Orlistat
Brand Names:
Xenical, Alli
Xenical Description:
Xenical is a prescription weight-loss medication that is used in the treatment of obesity when used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet. Xenical is not an appetite suppressant, and it works to block the body’s absorption of dietary fat by as much as 30 percent when taken with meals, up to three times per day. An over-the-counter version of Xenical is available in the form of Alli. Weight loss is generally seen within 2 weeks of starting treatment.
Xenical Side Effects:
Common side effects of Xenical include gastrointestinal symptoms such as:
- Fecal incontinence
- Flatulence with oily spotting
- Frequent or urgent bowel movements
- Oily, loose stools
For more information, see our Xenical side effects page.
Xenical Uses:
Xenical is a gastrointestinal (GI) lipase inhibitor that is used in the management of obesity to help patients lose weight and maintain weight loss. Xenical is indicated for obese patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of at least 30, or 27 in the presence of other risk factors such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia.
The medication is taken with meals containing fat (up to 3 times per day) to keep the body from digesting dietary fat. Xenical is used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet, with approximately 30 percent of calories from fat.
Xenical Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Xenical, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs should not be taken in combination with Xenical, as interactions may occur:
- Levothyroxine therapy
Xenical may interfere with the absorption of the following substances:
- Cyclosporine
- Beta-carotene
- Fat-soluble vitamins
Cyclosporine should not be taken within 2 hours of taking Xenical.
Xenical Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Xenical is taken as one 120-mg capsule three times per day, with doses taken with each main meal containing fat. Doses can be taken during the meal or up to 1 hour after the meal.
Doses greater than the recommended amount have not been shown to promote additional weight loss.
Missing a Dose of Xenical
If a meal is occasionally missed or if the meal contains no fat, doses of Xenical can be skipped.
Xenical Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication.
Xenical FDA Approval:
April 23, 1999
Xenical Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is currently no Black Box warning on Xenical.
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July 30, 2010, 2:23 pm
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July 30, 2010, 2:13 pm
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July 29, 2010, 12:33 pm
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July 28, 2010, 3:58 pm
