Orlistat capsules: What you need to know about orlistat oral route

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 2 months ago · 5 min read

Orlistat is a prescription medication designed to aid in weight loss and long-term weight management. It works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats, leading to reduced calorie intake and gradual weight loss. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of Orlistat's mechanisms, benefits, potential side effects, usage instructions, and important precautions to ensure safe and effective use.

How orlistat works

Orlistat belongs to a class of drugs known as lipase inhibitors. Lipase is an enzyme responsible for breaking down dietary fats in the digestive system. By blocking the action of lipase, Orlistat prevents the complete absorption of fats from the food you eat. Approximately 30% of the ingested fat is not broken down and is instead excreted in the stool. This reduction in fat absorption leads to a lower overall calorie intake, contributing to weight loss over time.

Key benefits

• Clinically proven weight loss: Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Orlistat in promoting significant weight loss compared to diet and exercise alone. It can lead to a 5-10% reduction in body weight over a year when combined with lifestyle modifications.
  
  

• Improved cardiovascular health: By facilitating weight loss and reducing fat absorption, Orlistat can positively impact cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  
  

• Enhanced blood sugar control: Orlistat has been shown to improve blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It can help lower HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term blood sugar control) and reduce the need for additional diabetes medications.
  
  

• Long-term weight management: Orlistat is not just for short-term weight loss. It can be a valuable tool for maintaining weight loss over the long term when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
  
  

• Reduced waist circumference: Orlistat can lead to a noticeable reduction in waist circumference, which is a key indicator of abdominal fat and associated health risks.

Potential side effects

While Orlistat is generally safe and well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of potential side effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues: The most common side effects are related to the digestive system. These include diarrhea, oily or fatty stools, gas, abdominal cramps, and fecal incontinence. These side effects are often mild and tend to decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
  
  

• Vitamin deficiencies: Orlistat can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Therefore, it's crucial to take a multivitamin supplement daily, preferably at bedtime, to ensure adequate intake of these essential nutrients.
  
  

• Rare side effects: In rare cases, Orlistat has been associated with liver injury and kidney stones. Regular monitoring of liver function and kidney health is essential for individuals taking Orlistat.

Dosage and administration

The standard dosage of Orlistat for adults is 120 mg taken three times a day with each main meal that contains fat. It's essential to take Orlistat during or up to one hour after a meal for optimal effectiveness. If a meal is missed or doesn't contain fat, you can skip the dose for that meal.

Important precautions

• Consult your doctor: Before starting Orlistat, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They will assess your suitability for the medication, considering your medical history, current medications, and any underlying health conditions.
  
  

• Follow a low-fat diet: Orlistat works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. Aim to consume no more than 30% of your daily calories from fat. Your doctor or a registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that complements Orlistat's effects.
  
  

• Take a multivitamin: As mentioned earlier, Orlistat can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Taking a multivitamin supplement is essential to prevent deficiencies and maintain overall health.
  
  

• Monitor side effects: Pay close attention to any side effects you experience and report them to your doctor promptly. They can help you manage or adjust your treatment as needed.

Orlistat can be a valuable tool for achieving and maintaining weight loss when used responsibly and in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes. It's not a magic pill, but it can significantly enhance your weight loss efforts and improve your overall health. 

Remember, the key to success with Orlistat is to follow your doctor's guidance, adhere to a healthy diet, and engage in regular physical activity. By combining these strategies, you can achieve your weight loss goals and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

If you have any further questions or concerns about Orlistat, don't hesitate to consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and address any specific questions you may have.

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.