Orlistat: The Weight Loss Medication for Obesity
What is Orlistat?
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor given in obese and overweight individuals to loose weight and achieve a healthier weight. It inhibits the absorption of dietary fats by 30% in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a reduction in calorie intake.
How Orlistat Works
Orlistat inhibits the action of gastric and pancreatic lipases reversibly, enzymes that break down fat in the stomach and intestines. This results in approximately 30% of dietary fat being undigested and excreted in the stool instead of being absorbed by the body.
When to Use Orlistat
● Obesity Treatment: Orlistat is used in combination with a low-calorie diet to treat obesity and promote weight loss.
● Weight Maintenance: It is also used to help maintain weight loss in patients who have successfully lost weight through diet and exercise.
Dosage
● Adult Dose: Typically, 120 mg taken with each meal that contains fat, up to three times per day.
● Pediatric Dose: Orlistat is not recommended for children under 12 years.
Side Effects
● Common Effects: Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, oily stools, and diarrhea.
● Serious Adverse Effects: Liver problems, gallstones, and malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (such as A, D, E, and K).
Common Brands: Reeshape, Lipocut.