Alli diet pills contain the active drug Orlistat, which is basically a fat blocker. According to the National Institutes of Health, this drug is used to assist in weight loss or maintain a desired weight by blocking dietary fats from being absorbed in the intestines. Alli is available over the counter and does not require a prescription. The dangers of using Alli diet pills range from embarrassing to life threatening; do not start this or another medicine without first discussing risks with a physician.
Diarrhea
Alli blocks dietary fat; therefore, the fat must leave the body intact. Alli will change bowel habits and is known for causing oily spots on underclothes, according to the MayoClinic.com. Liquid stools, which are sometimes uncontrollable, can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Prolonged diarrhea -- which will occur if someone taking Alli does not reduce fat intake -- is hard on the bowels. Reducing dietary fat intake may decrease this effect, but will probably not banish it, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Electrolyte and Vitamin Imbalances
Frequent diarrhea, or liquid stools, can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes such as sodium and potassium are integral to the body's functions, including muscle contractions and blood pressure. The National Institutes of Health warns that Alli can stop absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Fluids, electrolytes and vitamins lost with Alli use must be replaced, or malnourishment and dehydration can occur.
Liver Damage
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration had to reconsider the safety of Alli diet pills after multiple reports of liver damage by users, according to MayoClinic.com. Schmidt & Clark, a Washington, D.C. law firm, reports 32 people had liver damage and six had liver failure after Alli use. Liver failure is irreversible. Signs of liver damage include dark, tea-colored urine, yellow skin or eyes and right upper quadrant abdominal pain. As of May, 2010, the U.S. FDA completed its Alli safety review and added a warning to the label indicating the possibility of liver injury with use of Alli.
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