1. Use Me to Block Fat
Orlistat is an FDA-approved weight loss drug. Physicians prescribe it at higher doses under the name Xenical and consumers purchase the lower dose, over-the-counter version, named Alli, available at drugstores like Walgreen's and department store pharmacies such as Wal-Mart. Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor, which works in the intestines by blocking about one-third of the fat from the foods ingested from being absorbed by the body. The blocked fat is then excreted in the stool.
2. Do Me Right
Xenical, the prescription strength form of orlistat, is for people who have a body mass index above 30. If you have high diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, it is possible to have Xenical prescribed to you with a lower BMI of 27. Typically, Xenical is taken at the same time as meals, which should be three times daily. However, if the meal did not contain fat, it is okay to skip that dose.
3. Follow Dietary Guidelines or Suffer the Consequences
If you are taking Xenical or Alli, it is very important to follow the dietary guidelines given to you by your doctor. Keep fat in the diet at 30 percent in order to minimize the chance of side effects. Always avoid foods that are high in fat. You can find this information on the nutrition label found on food packages. Because orlistat also blocks the absorption of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and beta carotene, it is important that two hours before or after taking this medication, you also take a multivitamin each day.
4. Oily Spotting and Other Fun Side Effects
Changes in bowel movements are a common side effect of orlistat. Other side effects, aggravated by higher fat percentages in food, are oily spotting on clothes; flatulence with oily spotting; loose, oily or fatty stools; stomach pain; and an increased number of bowel movements, as well as difficulty controlling them. Serious side effects include hives, rash, difficulty breathing, itchiness and continuous or severe abdominal pain.
5. Warning! Don't Take Me If...
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take orlistat drugs. People with reduced bile flow or have problems absorbing food also should not use Xenical or Alli. Those who are currently using cyclosporine must consult with their physician before using any form of orlistat.
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