A culture of excessive convenience and poor dietary habits has made obesity a problem in America. The media has increased your awareness of how obesity can negatively impact your health. In addition, many people strive to lose weight for cosmetic and social purposes. Some individuals who want to lose weight may consider the use of prescription or over-the-counter medications. Unfortunately, some medications, such as the popular Alli, can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea.
Xenical
Marketed under the brand name Xenical, orlistat was originally available only by prescription. Orlistat works by inhibiting the action of lipase enzymes in the digestive tract. Since these enzymes are responsible for breaking down dietary fat into absorbable molecules, lipase inhibition causes fat to remain in the intestine until it is excreted through defecation. The resulting caloric deficit from lack of fat absorption can promote weight loss.
Alli OTC
Although orlistat was originally available only by prescription as a 120 mg capsule that was to be taken three times daily, the FDA approved a low-dose formulation in 2007 that could be purchased over-the-counter. Marketed under the brand name Alli by GlaxoSmithKline, OTC orlistat is available as 60 mg capsules that can be taken three times daily.
Alli and Diarrhea
Since orlistat blocks the absorption of dietary fat, lipids and other fatty compounds remain within the digestive tract. As a result, stools may become oily and loose. Excessive amounts of fat in the intestine can also irritate the digestive tract, resulting in diarrhea and abdominal pain. As reported by the manufacturers of prescription orlistat, the most common side effects were seen in the gastrointestinal system and included oily stools, rectal leakage, fecal incontinence and increased fecal urgency.
Diarrhea Warnings
Although minor diarrhea can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, more severe cases can lead to complications, such as dehydration. Severe diarrhea, uncontrolled fecal leakage, abdominal pain and cramps may require patients to discontinue use of orlistat. Although orlistat may be effective, it should be used in conjunction with a weight loss plan that includes good dietary habits and exercise. Patients should speak with a physician about concerns regarding the use of orlistat and prior to using any weight loss medications.
