Xenical
(
orlistat) is recommended for weight reduction in
overweight or obese men and women as well as for individuals who
have other weight-related medical concerns, such as high blood
pressure.
It aids with both weight loss and the prevention of weight being
regained. It is usually prescribed along with a plan for
appropriate exercise and calorie restriction.
Xenical Really Works:
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of pills on the market
claiming to help with weight loss. Many are notorious for being
ineffective. But some really do work -- and Xenical is one of
them.
It's so effective because it prevents the absorption of fat
molecules into the circulatory system, thus decreasing the amount
of calories obtained from meals. For most patients this dietary
change is reflected in fatty or oily bowel movements as undigested
fat is expelled from the body.
Administration is generally the same for all patients; 1 pill is
taken during or within 60 minutes of a meal containing fat. A pill
can skipped during fat-free meals and should not be taken without a
meal; doing so will provide no benefit.
Measurable weight loss is usually noticed within 14 days and
continues for 6 to 12 months or longer. Of course, weight loss will
be more dramatic if Xenical is used in conjunction with regular
exercise and healthy, nutritional foods, but most patients notice
moderate weight loss even without.
Not Just for Weight Reduction:
As mentioned earlier, Xenical is often given to individuals who are
experiencing other, weight-related medical conditions:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol/triglyceride levels
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
While most people wouldn't mind losing a few pounds, in the case of
the above conditions weight loss is imperative to maintain quality
of life and prevent untimely demise. In many cases even very
moderate weight loss results in a dramatic improvement of related
symptoms.
Xenical does not directly treat any other conditions. Other
medications, such as to lower blood pressure, may continue to be
used along with Xenical.
People who are extremely overweight or ill are often unable to
perform traditional exercises. For these individuals Xenical
provides a jump-start on losing weight until the patient is better
able to take control of the situation.
It's important to have a doctor approve any plans for dieting or
exercise and get regular checkups for the duration of
treatment.
Xenical is Not for Everyone:
This treatment is not for people who wish to lose a few pounds
before the high school reunion next weekend. It's a long term
weight-loss therapy for individuals who are determined to improve
their lifestyles.
Xenical use can be dangerous in patients with certain health
conditions:
- Malabsorption syndrome (unable absorb food well)
- Cholestasis or gallbladder problems
- Liver failure
- Any organ transplant
It should be used with caution in patients who have:
- Thyroid problems
- History of gallstones
- Liver disease
- Pancreatitis
Xenical is not directly harmful to unborn or nursing babies;
however, it does inhibit absorption of vitamins and minerals
essential to development and growth. It should never be used by
pregnant or breast-feeding mothers. For the same reasons, it should
be used only with physician supervision in still-growing children
or teenagers.
Side Effects:
The most common side effects associated with Xenical are not
serious and may pass as the body adjusts:
- Fatty or oily stools
- Increased frequency of bowel movements
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
- Gassiness, which may cause oily spotting on underwear
- Changes to menstrual cycles
Very rarely more serious side effects result and should be seen by
a physician before continuing treatment:
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Dark urine
- Pain in upper right side of the stomach
Hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing or
swallowing indicate an allergic reaction. Discontinue use and seek
medical attention if this happens.