Alli has received a lot of attention for being the first FDA approved over-the-counter weight loss drug. The drug is the reduced strength version of the prescription medication orlistat. Alli contains 60 milligrams of orlistat compared to the 120 milligrams available through a prescription. Speak to your doctor before you use Alli to lose weight.
Accessibility
One of the benefits of Alli is that the drug is accessible to everyone. Instead of having to receive a prescription, you can go to the store and purchase the medication over-the-counter. The directions are easy to follow: you simply need to take a capsule with a meal up to three times per day.
Weight Loss
According to the MayoClinic.com, you should lose a modest amount of weight while taking Alli. If you lose approximately eight pounds a year, Alli can increase that weight loss by about three to five pounds. The drug works by blocking fat from foods from being digested, allowing it to pass through your intestinal tract instead.
Low Fat Diet
The makers of Alli emphasize the importance of following a low fat diet. It is recommended by the manufacturer that you do not consume more than 15 grams of fat at each meal. If you take Alli and eat fatty foods, you are more prone to unwanted side effects.
Block Vitamin Absorption
Alli blocks your body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and beta carotene, states the PubMed.gov website. While you take Alli, it is recommended that you take a multi-vitamin each night that contains vitamins A, D, E, K, and beta carotene.
Side Effects
The most common side effect of Alli is changing your bowel movements. If you eat more fat than recommended, you are likely to experience oily spotting and discharge. Other side effects include gas, urgency to use the bathroom, loose stools, oily stools, rectal pain and stomach discomfort.
Liver Injury
An FDA review was launched in 2009 to look into the possibility of Alli causing liver damage, states MayoClinic.com. Although no definite risk has been determined, signs of liver damage, such as skin discoloration, weakness, brown urine and fatigue should be reported to a doctor.
Member Comments