What is Xenical (Orlistat) used for?

Xenical (Orlistat) is an oral medication prescribed to aid weight loss in patients who are obese or have certain risk factors such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension. It operates by blocking some fat from being absorbed by the body following meals. This treatment is commonly prescribed along with regular exercise and a low-calorie low-fat diet to get the most effective results. Your doctor may also prescribe it to treat other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Xenical (Orlistat)?

Strictly follow any instructions provided by your doctor while using Xenical (Orlistat) to get the safest and most effective results. The normal dosage is one tablet taken prior to a meal containing any fat content. Your individual regimen may differ based on your weight, health condition, age, and the severity of your symptoms. The tablets should always be swallowed whole along with a large glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or split the medication prior to use to avoid unintentionally destroying or altering the effects of their contents. Always ask your doctor any questions you have to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Xenical (Orlistat)?

Common side effects that may occur in some patients using Xenical (Orlistat) include:

• Headaches
• Stomach pain or vomiting
• Severe diarrhoea or incontinence
• Back pain
• Flu symptoms (Runny nose, sore throat, or coughing)
• Teeth or gum problems
• Mild skin rash
• Oily spotting in the undergarments
• Gassiness or oily discharge
• Fatty or oily stools

Immediately stop using the medication and contact your doctor if you experience any serious side effects such as severe lower back pain, intense drowsiness, confusion, unusual weight gain, upper stomach pain, increased heart rate, blood appearing in the urine, darkened urine, discoloured stools, or jaundice. These conditions may require lowered dosages, reduced frequency of administration, or immediate medical attention in more serious cases.

Please Note

Do not use Xenical (Orlistat) if you are breastfeeding, the patient is under the age of eighteen, if you have cholestasis, or if you have chronic malabsorption syndrome. Also inform your doctor if you have diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, or chronic kidney disease as these conditions may require reduced doses or other alterations to your regimen to prevent potential health problems from occurring.

Strictly use Xenical (Orlistat) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Xenical (Orlistat) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.