Xenical Side Effects

Xenical Side Effects
Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

Xenical, generically sold as orlistat, is a medication used to treat obesity. According to Drugs.com, it blocks fat from being absorbed by your body. Tell your doctor whether you have a history of gallstones, pancreatitis or liver disease because Xenical may prove harmful and lead to serious side effects.

Common Side Effects

According to Medline Plus, Xenical's most common side effects include gas or oily spotting on your underwear or clothing. Sometimes, your stools may be fatty or oily in appearance. Xenical may increase the frequency of your bowel movements to the point you may have trouble controlling them. In some situations, you may develop rectal pain, headache, anxiousness or irregular menstrual cycles. Drugs.com states these symptoms are expected of orlistat and should be temporary.

Other Physical Side Effects

Drugs.com states that other physical side effects of Xenical include a skin rash, headache, back pain, fever or chills. You can also have teeth or gum problems, sore throat, stuffy nose or cough.

Serious Side Effects

According to Medline Plus, Xenical can lead to such serious conditions as rash, itchiness or intense and severe stomach pain. You may also experience trouble breathing or swallow. Get immediate medical care in order to help treat these symptoms.

Pancreatitis

Drugs.com states that Xenical can increase your risk for developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Symptoms of pancreatitis includes intense stomach pain that radiates to your back, tachycardia (fast heart rate), nausea and vomiting.

References

Article reviewed by Jerri Farris Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments