Alli is an over-the-counter weight loss supplement manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It functions by blocking approximately 25 percent of ingested fat from absorbing into the body, according to GlaxoSmithKline. It has one active ingredient as well as many inactive ingredients. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Alli is available throughout the country in many beauty and drug stores. However, it is not without its risks.
Orlistat
Orlistat is the only active ingredient in Alli. The dietary weight loss supplement has 60 mg per dose, whereas prescription Orlistat usually begins at 120 mg, according to MayoClinic. Orlistat works as a lipase inhibitor, which prevents fast from absorption in the digestive tract. It appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder that does not dissolve in water, according to RX List. Eating in excess of 15 g of fat during a meal will cause bowel-related changes, the manufacturer warns.
Inactive Ingredients
According to the FDA, inactive ingredients improve appearance, stability and bioavailablity, as well as consistency while acting as a stabilizer or preservative. The inactive ingredients in Alli are inert and do not affect the function of the supplement. Alli contains FD&C blue #2, edible ink, gelatin, iron dioxide, talc, sodium lauryl sulfate, microcrystallin cellulose, povidine and sodium starch glycolate, according to the manufacturer.
Side Effects
According to PubMed, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, the FDA received several complaints of Orlistat causing serious liver damage. However, there lacks a definitive link between the use of Orlistat and the reported complications--symptoms of liver damage include weakness or fatigue, brown urine or jaundice. Individuals taking Alli may experience common side effects like oily spotting on clothing, gas with oily spotting, headache, anxiety, frequent bowel movements and loose stool.
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