Facts About the Obesity Drug Xenical

Xenical® (active ingredient, orlistat) is a new type of obesity medication which acts in the digestive tract (stomach, small intestine) to prevent about 30 percent of our dietary-fat from being digested. This undigested fat is eliminated in bowel movements, thus reducing calorie-intake. For optimum weight reduction and comfort, Xenical® patients should eat a calorie-controlled diet and take regular physical exercise. Like all prescription diet pills, Xenical® is designed only for clinically obese patients, with a body mass index of 30+.

Is Xenical Safe?

Xenical® is one of the few obesity drugs approved by the FDA for long term use. Because it operates on the digestive system, rather than the brain or nervous system, it is particularly safe for patients suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease. In fact, Xenical® is the only drug approved for the treatment of obesity in high-risk patients. In addition, it is also the only weight loss medication to receive FDA-approval for use in the treatment of obese teenagers.

Do I Need to Eat Special Foods When Taking Xenical?

Yes. You must follow a low-fat diet plan. Ask your doctor for details.

Will Xenical Help Me to Lose Weight?

It might, but only if you follow a calorie-restricted diet and take regular physical exercise. How much weight you lose will depend on your compliance with these dietary and fitness guidelines, although clinical studies suggest a loss of about 10 percent of your starting weight is reasonable.

Does Xenical Have Any Extra Health Benefits?

Yes. Xenical® may lower the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) in the blood, thus reducing your risk of heart disease. It may also have a positive effect on levels of blood sugar and insulin, which may reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

Does Xenical Have Side Effects?

Yes. Patients on Xenical® may experience an urgent need to go to the bathroom, an increased number of bowel movements, plus some uncontrollable bowel movements. These bowel difficulties are caused by the excretion of undigested fat and typically occur after high-fat meals - which is why patients are advised to reduce their fat intake and follow a low-fat eating plan. Typically, these symptoms reduce with time, provided you adhere to your recommended diet. Please ask your doctor for a full explanation of possible side effects.

Ask Your Doctor's Advice Before Taking Xenical

Before taking Xenical® make sure you explain your full medical history to your doctor. Tell him/her about any: allergies, digestive disorders, under-active thyroid function (hypothyroidism), other metabolism problems (eg. oxalate kidney stones, hyperoxaluria) you have experienced. In addition, list the other medicines you use in case of conflict. Please note that Xenical® is not safe for use by anorexia or bulimia patients, children, pregnant or nursing moms.

Sample Price Guide

Xenical® 120mg (30 pills) $100.00

Warning: For the sake of your health, talk to your doctor before taking Xenical® or any other weight loss medications, and maintain regular contact during your course of treatment.