Olistat

Olistat Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Olistat is a brand name. Its generic name is Orlistat.

Olistat Introduction

Olistat is a medicine used for weight management. It belongs to a group of medicines known as gastrointestinal lipase inhibitors, or GI lipase inhibitors, and it works by reduing the amount of fat that is absorbed by the body. Olistat is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and in prescription form, and is marketed under various brand names, such as Xendos and Alli.

Uses for Olistat

Olistat is used to help enhance weight loss in overweight adults who are taking part in a weight-loss program. It is also used in certain patients for obesity management. Olistat may be used in conjunction with other medications and a reduced-calorie diet to achieve greater weight-loss.

Mechanism Of Action

Olistat works by inhibiting the absorption of fat in your body. It does this by inhibiting an enzyme in the stomach and intestines called lipase. The lipase enzyme helps the body break down and absorb fat. When Olistat blocks the action of the lipase enzyme, less fat is absorbed from the diet, resulting in a smaller increase in blood fat levels.

In addition to its weight loss benefits, Olistat can also reduce triglyceride levels and improve blood cholesterol levels. This is important because both elevations in triglyceride levels and blood cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

The effectiveness of Olistat depends on its adequate and consistent use. Most people will begin to see results within three months of regularly taking the dosage of Olistat prescribed by their doctor. However, it is important to follow the recommended instructions to maximize the effects of the medication.

Absorption

Olistat is mostly not absorbed in the body, it mainly works in the lower intestine and only a small amount is absorbed into the bloodstream. The medication is broken down by the gut bacteria in the lower intestine.

Route Of Elimination

The inactive metabolites are eliminated as feces, and the active form of the drug is eliminated in urine.

Dosage

The recommended dose of Olistat is one 120 mg capsule, taken orally with a full glass of liquid, three times a day. Olistat is generally taken during, or up to one hour after each main meal of the day. The missed doses should be skipped and the regular schedule should be resumed.

Administration

Olistat can be taken orally with a full glass of liquid either before, during or up to one hour after each meal. It should not be taken more than three times a day.

Side Effect

The most common side effects associated with Olistat include gas with discharge, loose stools, abdominal pain, fecal urgency, difficulty controlling bowel movements, increased bowel movements, diarrhea, nausea, and headache.

Toxicity

Olistat is relatively nontoxic and the most severe side effect can be gastrointestinal (GI) distress. If Olistat is taken with meals that are very high in fat, the side effects may be more pronounced. In such cases, Olistat should be discontinued until the symptoms resolve.

Precaution

Before taking Olistat, you should tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of liver or kidney problems. You should also tell your doctor if you have gallbladder problems or if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Interaction

Olistat should not be taken with certain medications such as warfarin, because it can reduce the effectiveness of the warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. Olistat should also not be taken with some vitamins, as their absorption may be reduced.

Disease Interaction

Olistat may interact with certain disease states and alter their natural history. For example, Olistat has been linked to reduced risk of Crohn's disease, colorectal cancer, and type 2 diabetes. It is important to discuss any potential interactions with your doctor before taking Olistat.

Drug Interaction

Certain drugs may interact with Olistat. For example, if you take anticoagulants, such as warfarin, the effectiveness of the drug may be reduced by Olistat. In addition, some medications, such as thyroid hormones, can interact with Olistat.

Food Interactions

Olistat should be taken with meals that contain less than 30% fat in order for it to be most effective. Foods such as nuts, seeds, fried foods, creamy sauces, gravies, and high-fat dairy products should be avoided, as these foods tend to be high in fat.

Pregnancy Use

Olistat is not recommended for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant as it may interfere with the absorption of important nutrients. Women should also not take Olistat if they are nursing, as it may interfere with the production of breast milk.

Lactation Use

It is not recommended for breastfeeding women to take Olistat, as it may interfere with the production of breast milk.

Acute Overdose

In the event of an overdose, the patient should stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of an overdose may include abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.

Contraindication

Olistat is contraindicated in patients with chronic malabsorption syndromes, as well as those with known hypersensitivity to Olistat or any of its components.

Use Directions

Olistat should be taken as directed by your physician. Generally, the recommended dose is one 120mg capsule taken with a full glass of liquid up to three times a day with meals. Olistat should not be taken with meals that contain more than 30% fat. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your physician in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.

Storage Conditions

Olistat should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and light. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume Of Distribution

Olistat has a volume of distribution of 11.7 L and is not significantly bound to plasma proteins.

Half Life

The half life of Olistat is approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Olistat is approximately 20 L/h.

Here you find in details version of Olistat

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Olistat

What is Olistat?

Olistat is a prescription weight loss medication which is used to aid in weight loss, or to help reduce the risk of regaining weight already lost.

What does Olistat do?

Olistat works by blocking some of the fat that you consume from being absorbed by your body. This helps you to reduce the amount of fat absorbed from your diet, helping you to lose weight and reduce the risk of regaining weight.

How long does Olistat take to start working?

Olistat should begin to take effect within a few days of starting treatment. However, the effects of Olistat will be most noticeable after you have been using it for a few weeks.

What is a typical dose of Olistat?

The recommended dose of Olistat is one capsule three times a day, taken during or up to one hour after each main meal. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

How long can I take Olistat for?

Olistat should only be taken for a maximum of six months. After six months, it is recommended that you have a break of one month before starting the treatment again. That said, if you are still losing weight after six months, consider changing to a different form of weight loss treatment.

Can I buy Olistat over the counter?

No, Olistat is only available with a valid prescription from your doctor or another healthcare professional.

Does Olistat have any side effects?

Like all medications, Olistat can cause side effects. Common side effects of Olistat include changes in bowel habits, oily spotting, passing gas, and an increased number of bowel movements. Speak to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Olistat.

Is Olistat suitable for everyone?

No, Olistat is not suitable for everyone. If you have any underlying health condition, such as liver or kidney disease, Olistat is not suitable for you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Olistat.

Does Olistat interact with other medications?

Yes, Olistat may interact with other medications. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking, before starting Olistat, to ensure that all interactions are avoided.

Does Olistat cause weight loss without dieting?

No, Olistat does not cause weight loss without dieting. Olistat is used to aid weight loss, or to help reduce the risk of regaining weight already lost. It is important to stick to a reduced calorie, low-fat diet whilst taking Olistat in order to achieve the best results.

Is Olistat suitable for people with diabetes?

Yes, Olistat may be suitable for people with diabetes. However, it is important to discuss this with your doctor, in case any additional dietary advice is needed. Additionally, if you are taking any diabetes medications, it is important to tell your doctor before starting Olistat.

What should I do if I forget to take Olistat?

If you forget to take a dose of Olistat, simply take it as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose that you have missed.

Does Olistat have any long-term effects?

No, Olistat does not have any long-term effects. Once you stop taking Olistat, any unwanted effects should stop within a few days.

Does Olistat interact with any herbal remedies?

Yes, you should not take any herbal remedies whilst taking Olistat, as they may interact and cause unwanted side effects. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any herbal remedies you are taking before starting Olistat.

Does Olistat cause weight gain?

No, Olistat does not cause weight gain. In fact, it is used to aid weight loss or to help reduce the risk of regaining weight already lost.

Is Olistat suitable for children?

No, Olistat is not suitable for children. Olistat is a weight loss medication for adults over the age of 18 only.

Does Olistat work without exercise?

No, Olistat should only be taken in conjunction with a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise. Taking Olistat without dieting or exercise is unlikely to be effective.

Is Olistat safe to use while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Olistat when breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for further advice on how to safely lose weight while breastfeeding.

Is Olistat available on the NHS?

Yes, Olistat is available on the NHS for people with a BMI over 30, and those with a BMI over 28 who have other health risks associated with being overweight or obese.

Is Olistat safe to take while pregnant?

No, Olistat is not safe to take while pregnant. Speak to your doctor or midwife for advice on safe weight loss while pregnant.

Does Olistat cause constipation?

Olistat may cause changes to your bowel habits. If you experience constipation while taking Olistat, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on how to prevent or relieve it.

How quickly will I lose weight when taking Olistat?

Weight loss with Olistat will vary from person to person. However, you should aim to lose at least 5% of your starting weight during the first three months of treatment.

What foods should I avoid while taking Olistat?

It is important to stick to a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet while taking Olistat. Foods that are high in saturated fat, such as full-fat dairy products, processed foods, and fried foods should be avoided.

Is Olistat related to fat burning?

No, Olistat is not related to fat burning. Olistat works by blocking some of the fat that you consume from being absorbed by your body. This helps you to reduce the amount of fat absorbed from your diet, helping you to lose weight and reduce the risk of regaining weight.

How often should I take Olistat?

The recommended dose of Olistat is one capsule three times a day, taken during or up to one hour after each main meal. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

How should Olistat be stored?

Olistat should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Ensure the capsule is tightly closed when not in use. Keep all medications out of the reach of children.

Can Olistat be used for weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes?

Yes, Olistat may be used to aid weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. However, it is important to speak to your doctor first, as any additional dietary advice may be needed.

Does Olistat cause fatigue?

Fatigue is not a common side effect of Olistat. If you experience any unwanted side effects while taking Olistat, such as fatigue, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Is Olistat suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Olistat is suitable for vegetarians as the capsules are made from ingredients derived from plant sources.

Does Olistat cause nausea?

Nausea is not a common side effect of Olistat. However, speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any unwanted side effects while taking Olistat.

Is diet and exercise essential for taking Olistat?

Yes, a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise are essential for achieving the best results when taking Olistat. Try to exercise at least five times a week, for at least 30 minutes per day. Additionally, it is important to stick to a healthy, balanced diet to ensure your body is getting the nutrients that it needs.

What is the best way to take Olistat?

The best way to take Olistat is to take the capsule during or up to one hour after each main meal. Do not take more than the recommended dose and stick to a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise for best results.

Can Olistat be taken long-term?

No, Olistat should not be taken long-term. Olistat should only be taken for a maximum of six months. After six months, it is recommended that you have a break of one month before starting the treatment again. That said, if you are still losing weight after six months, consider changing to a different form of weight loss treatment.

Is Olistat safe to take for a long period of time?

No, Olistat should not be taken for a long period of time. Olistat should only be taken for a maximum of six months. After six months, it is recommended that you have a break of one month before starting the treatment again. That said, if you are still losing weight after six months, consider changing to a different form of weight loss treatment.

How long after taking Olistat can I drink alcohol?

Alcohol should be avoided while taking Olistat. Alcohol may further reduce the absorption of fat from the body, leading to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. It is recommended to avoid alcohol until after you have finished your course of Olistat.

How quickly will I notice results when taking Olistat?

Weight loss with Olistat will vary from person to person. However, you should aim to lose at least 5% of your starting weight during the first three months of treatment. Results should begin to be noticeable within a few days of starting Olistat, but the effects will be more noticeable after you have been using it for a few weeks.

Can I take Olistat if I am taking other medications?

Yes, it is possible to take Olistat if you are taking other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking, before starting Olistat, to ensure that all interactions are avoided.

Can I take Olistat while on other forms of weight loss treatments, such as weight watchers?

Yes, you can take Olistat while on other forms of weight loss treatments, such as weight watchers. However, speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are considering combining Olistat with any other weight loss treatments, as drug interactions may occur.

Does Olistat cause any permanent changes to my body?

No, Olistat does not cause any permanent changes to your body. Any unwanted effects should stop within a few days of stopping treatment.

Can Olistat be used to treat obesity?

Yes, Olistat can be used to aid weight loss for people with obesity. However, it is important to stick to a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise for best results.