Alli is an over-the-counter, or OTC, medication labeled as a weight loss supplement for the treatment of obesity in adults. It reduces the amount of fat absorbed in the intestines by blocking the actions of the enzyme lipase, which breaks down fat. Undigested fat is cleared from the body, reducing the amount of calories absorbed from food. Alli may cause unwanted side effects and should be used only after approval from a doctor.
Bowel Movements
Bowel movement changes are the most common side effect experienced while taking Alli due to the fat-clearing effects of the drug. Side effects may include oily spotting of underwear, stool color changes, bowel movement urgency, loose and oily stools and an increased number of bowel movements, according to drugs.com. These side effects are generally more common when first taking Alli, but may persist. Call a doctor if any of these side effects are severe.
Vitamin Absorption Problems
Alli decreases the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, E, D and K. Therefore, a multivitamin supplementation is generally required for individuals taking Alli to avoid nutritional deficiencies. According to PubMed Health, multi-vitamins should be taken at least two hours before or after taking Alli to ensure the vitamins are absorbed properly.
Side Effects
Along with changes in bowel movement habits, individuals may experience other side effects while taking Alli. Side effects may include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, headache, urine color changes, loss of appetite and back pain. Individuals may also experience symptoms of a cold, such as stuffy nose and cough, or symptoms of the flu, such as fever and chills, according to drugs.com. It is important to speak with a doctor if any unusual side effects occur while taking Alli, as this is not a complete list of side effects.
Liver Injury
Alli may cause damage to the liver. Adverse reports of severe liver injury in individuals taking Alli and other similar medications have been reported to the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. The FDA continues to review cases of liver injury associated with Alli use, but has yet to identify a cause and effect relationship between the two. As of May 2010, the FDA updated the warning label of Alli to include the possibility of severe liver injury as well as a listing of the signs of liver injury, which include yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine production, loss of appetite and light-colored stools. It recommends individuals continue taking Alli if approved by a physician and to report any negative side effects to a doctor and the FDA's MedWatch program.
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