How Xenical Aids in Weight Loss | Nu Image Medical

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 3 years ago · 4 min read

Understanding Xenical (Orlistat) for Effective Weight Loss

Obesity, characterized by excessive body fat and a high BMI, affects millions of adults and children in the United States. The rising prevalence of obesity has significantly impacted quality of life, leading to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and certain cancers.

Fortunately, several treatment options are available for managing obesity, including medications like Xenical. If you're considering this route, it's essential to understand how Xenical works and its potential benefits.

What is Xenical?

Xenical, the brand name for Orlistat, is a medication designed to assist in weight loss when combined with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise. Often prescribed to individuals with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease, Orlistat is part of a class of drugs known as lipase inhibitors. These medications function by blocking some of the fat from being absorbed in the intestines, which is then excreted naturally from the body.

By taking Xenical as prescribed, you can prevent up to 30% of the fat you consume from being absorbed. Adhering to your prescribed dosage is crucial, as exceeding it will not enhance your weight loss results.

Why Might Xenical be Prescribed?

Xenical is typically prescribed to support weight loss alongside a healthy diet and exercise routine. It may be recommended for individuals dealing with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease. Additionally, Xenical can help maintain weight loss after initial success.

How Does Xenical Work?

Xenical aids weight loss by inhibiting the enzymes (gastric and pancreatic lipases) responsible for breaking down triglycerides in the intestine. When these enzymes are blocked, triglycerides are not converted into fatty acids and absorbed, but rather are excreted. This mechanism allows Xenical to be effective for long-term use.

How is Xenical Taken?

Typically, Xenical is taken as one pill with each meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). If you skip a meal, do not take a pill, as there is no fat to block. The maximum recommended dose is three capsules per day, regardless of the number of meals. If you're taking a multivitamin, it should be taken at bedtime to ensure optimal absorption. Regular exercise is also essential to enhance the effectiveness of Xenical.

What Are the Benefits of Xenical?

Xenical has demonstrated several benefits, including:

• Lowering blood lipids
• Improving blood pressure
• Enhancing insulin sensitivity and preventing type 2 diabetes
• Promoting effective weight loss by blocking fat digestion

Recommended Diet and Nutrition

While taking Xenical, it's crucial to follow a low-fat diet to maximize its effectiveness. Focus on reducing calorie intake and avoiding diets high in fats, sugars, salt, or refined grains. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Adequate hydration and smaller, frequent meals throughout the day will also support your weight loss goals.

Recommended Exercise

To complement your Xenical treatment, incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming for at least 150 minutes per week. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your fitness improves. Adding resistance training can also help build lean muscle and promote further fat loss.

Should You Consider Behavioral Therapy?

Behavioral therapy can enhance the success of Xenical treatment by helping you adhere to diet and exercise changes. A trained therapist can assist with self-motivation, goal setting, stress management, and problem-solving strategies.

What is WAYT-less Treatment?

The WAYT-less treatment, offered by Nu Image Medical, combines Acarbose, Orlistat (Xenical), and Naltrexone to optimize weight loss. This combination helps reduce fat and carbohydrate absorption, manage post-meal glucose levels, and suppress appetite and cravings, providing a comprehensive approach to weight management.

Conclusion

Obesity is a significant health concern that requires a multifaceted approach. Medications like Xenical, when used alongside a healthy diet, exercise, and behavioral therapy, can be effective tools in your weight loss journey. Contact Nu Image Medical today to explore how Xenical and other treatments can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Nu Image Medical® has been a leader in weight loss, anti-aging, and wellness since 2004, offering medically supervised programs for weight management, peptides, erectile dysfunction, and more.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.