The Effects Of Orlistat On Weight Loss

The Effects of Orlistat on Weight Loss

Oct 31, 2010 | By Ashley Tyson

Orlistat is a weight loss supplement available by prescription or over-the-counter. It is most effective when used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet with increased physical activity, according to the Drugs website. Overweight people at risk of hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol or heart disease primarily use Orlistat. It can have several effects on the success of your weight loss goal.

Fat Blocker

Orlistat is in the class of medications referred to as lipase inhibitors. According to RX List, people who took Orlistat in tandem with a healthy diet and exercise lost more weight than those who did not. Lipase inhibitors function by blocking the absorption of fat by the intestines, MedlinePlus says. The unabsorbed fat expels through the stool. Over-the-counter dosing is approximately 60 mg and prescription dosing is 120 mg, according to RX List. The Drugs website says that your daily fat intake for either should not exceed more than 30 percent of your daily caloric intake.

Possible Weight Gain

According to Colin Waine and Nick Bosanquet in the book "Obesity and Weight Management in Primary Care," individuals taking Orlistat were more likely to regain the weight lost after ceasing use of the medication. Waine and Bosanquet attribute this result to improper dietary changes to reduce fat intake after stopping Orlistat. You should not use Orlistat for longer than 12 months, although some physicians may approve its use for up to 24 months, but should never be used beyond that. Choosing healthy foods low in fat and calories as well as continual exercise can help prevent weight gain once you stop taking Orlistat.

Constipation and Diarrhea Hinder Weight Loss

If you exceed the fat intake per meal, you can suffer constipation and diarrhea, which can deter to your weight loss goal, according to Waine and Bosanquet. MedlinePlus advocates choosing leans meats and foods low in saturated fat as a large percentage of your fat intake should be from mono and polyunsaturated fats. Side effects of orlistat include an oily spotting in the stool due to the expelled fats. When the fat levels are too high, you can experience frequent and severe bowel changes, according to the Drugs website.