Orlistat

Orlistat Introduction

Orlistat 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. Orlistat 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 Orlistat

Orlistat 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. Orlistat may be used in conjunction with other medications and a reduced-calorie diet to achieve greater weight-loss.

Mechanism Of Action

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

Absorption

Orlistat 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 Orlistat is one 120 mg capsule to be taken immediately before, during or up to one hour after each main meal. If a meal is missed or contains no fat the dose of Orlistat should be omitted. Doses of Orlistat above 120 mg three times daily have not been shown to provide additional benefits. The effect of Orlistat results in an increase in fecal fat 24-48 hours after dosing. Upon discontinuation of therapy, fecal fat content usually returns to pretreatment levels within 48-72 hours.

The safety & efficacy of Orlistat were investigated in clinical studies lasting up to 4 years. The recommended dose of Orlistat for adolescents is as same as adults.

Special dosage instruction: The tolerability and efficacy of Orlistat have not been studied in elderly patients, or patients with hepatic and/ or renal impairments.

The recommended dose of Orlistat is one 120 mg capsule, taken orally with a full glass of liquid, three times a day. Orlistat 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

Orlistat 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 Orlistat include gas with discharge, loose stools, abdominal pain, fecal urgency, difficulty controlling bowel movements, increased bowel movements, diarrhea, nausea, and headache.

Toxicity

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

Precaution

Before taking Orlistat , 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

Orlistat 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. Orlistat should also not be taken with some vitamins, as their absorption may be reduced.

Disease Interaction

Orlistat may interact with certain disease states and alter their natural history. For example, Orlistat 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 Orlistat .

Drug Interaction

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

Food Interactions

Orlistat 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

Orlistat 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 Orlistat 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 Orlistat , 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

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

Use Directions

Orlistat 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. Orlistat 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

Orlistat 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

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

Half Life

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

Clearance

The clearance of Orlistat is approximately 20 L/h.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Orlistat