Alli is a weight loss medication sold over-the-counter. The medication contains the active ingredient orlistat, which is also available by prescription in a larger dose. Taking Alli in conjunction with a low fat diet and exercise may help you lose excessive weight, according to MayoClinic.com. In addition to the weight loss benefits, taking Alli may cause potential side effects.
Liver Damage
A rare side effect of taking orlistat may include damage to the kidney, but no concrete association occurs between the two, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Association. Symptoms of liver damage include yellowing of the skin and eyes, itching all over your body, darkened urine, decreased appetite and clay-colored stools.
Oily Stool
Alli pills may cause an oily discharge in the stool or from your anus, especially following a fatty meal. The medication decreases the production of an enzyme called lipase in your intestines that helps digest dietary fat, according to MayoClinic.com. Without this enzyme, the body excretes the excessive fat from your body. Alli pills may cause an oily residue to appear in your undergarments and stain clothing.
Gastrointestinal Changes
Taking Alli diet supplements may cause an increase in flatulence. The medication may also cause an increase in urgent bowel movements and in watery stool, called diarrhea. Fecal incontinence may happen to up to 5 percent of people taking the Alli pills, according to Drugs.com. Additional stomach and intestinal changes that may occur include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. You may also experience constipation or pain in your rectum.
Decreased Vitamin Absorption
Some vitamins, including vitamin A, D, E and K, absorb into the body through fat. When taking Alli pills, you absorb less fat and may interfere with these vitamins. You should take a fat-soluble vitamin at least two hours before or after taking Alli, according to RxList.com.
Headache, Anxiety and Irregular menstrual Periods
Some people taking orlistat may experience a headache or anxiety. These symptoms may decrease or stop as you continue to take the medication. If you are a female, your menstrual periods may become irregular while taking Alli diet pills.
Allergic Side Effects
As with any medication, you may experience an allergic reaction to Alli. Symptoms of an allergy include hives, itching, swelling of your face, mouth, lips or airway, difficulty breathing and an increased heart rate. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
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