Alli, a brand name for the medication orlistat, is an over-the-counter product approved as a weight-loss aid by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It works in conjunction with a low-fat diet and exercise program to help people drop pounds. Dr. Donald Hensrud of the Mayo Clinic says, however, that any weight loss that occurs when using Alli is only slightly more than you would get through diet and exercise alone.
Purpose
Alli is a less potent version of the prescription weight-loss drug Xenical, which is commonly prescribed only to obese people. Alli pills are taken along with meals. Once the weight you need to lose is off, you stop taking Alli but continue eating healthy foods and exercising.
Function
According to the Mayo Clinic, Alli works by disabling lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat in the digestive system. When the body can't break down fat in the food you eat, it travels through the digestive system and is passed through bowel movements.
Side Effects
Some of the side effects of Alli are natural reactions to its fat-blocking properties, states Drugs.com. These include oily bowel movements that may leak into undergarments, fecal incontinence, stomach pain, nausea with or without vomiting, orange- or brown-colored stools and rectal pain. These side effects may be more severe if you eat large amounts of fats.
Other common side effects include cold and flu-like symptoms, bleeding or sore gums and headache. Side effects such as severe back or upper abdominal pain, or an allergic reaction, which is marked by swelling, hives or itching, require a trip to the doctor.
Contraindications
People taking prescription or other medications should consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to taking Alli. Those with digestive conditions, diabetes, heart conditions, thyroid conditions, gallstones, eating disorders or liver disease shouldn't take Alli. Children under 18 years old and people with abnormal nutrient absorption shouldn't take Alli. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before taking this drug.
Warning
In early 2010, the FDA reported that counterfeit Alli products were being sold that contain sibutramine instead of orlistat. Sibutramine is a controlled substance that can be very dangerous if taken improperly. GlaxoSmithKline, maker of Alli, states that the counterfeit products have been sold online, not in retail stores. But the FDA recommends that anyone taking Alli check the authenticity of the pills. Counterfeit products don't have the words "SEALED for YOUR PROTECTION" on the foil security seal. Counterfeit pills are capsules with a powder inside, whereas authentic Alli pills are white pellets. Counterfeit products have an expiration date with a two-digit month, two-digit day and four-digit year; authentic products have only a two-digit month and two-digit year. If you think you have counterfeit pills, don't take them and report it to the FDA immediately at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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