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Alli

Alli is an over-the-counter weight loss pill that is also known as Orlistat.  It is typically meant for adults who are struggling to lose the extra pounds. Again, it is designed for those over the age of 18.

There have been studies that have shown that this medication can help patients lose weight, especially when compared to dieting alone.  The individual who takes this medication is encouraged to have a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet.

The same medication – but in a higher dose – can be taken though, it requires a prescription. It is called Xenical.

Method of Action:

Alli works as a lipase inhibitor.  The goal is for the medication to block the intestines from absorbing 25% of the fat you eat. When the fat is not absorbed, it is excreted from the body through your bowel movements.

One of the centerpieces of this medication is that it may reduce the amount of visceral fat. This is the belly fat that has been linked to Diabetes Type II, High Blood Pressure, Heart Disease, and even Stroke.

Typical Dosing Recommendations:

The over-the-counter version of Alli is a 60-milligram tablet. When the medication is 120-milligrams – it is then Xenical and a prescription can be taken.

The OTC medication should be taken with an hour of a fat-containing meal up to three times a day.

The individual should already be on a low-fat diet – but they should also be watching their diet to ensure that the daily fat intake through meals should be distributed between the three meals. Additionally, no more than 30 percent of total calories should be consumed in a day.

The manufacturer recommends a fat intake of about 15 grams a meal.

Side Effects:

–  Abdominal Pain
–  Abdominal Discomfort
–  Gas with oily anal discharge
–  Oily Stools
–  Increase frequency of bowel movements
–  Urgent or hard to control bowel movements
–  Others include: Headaches, Joints pains, menstrual changes, anxiety, etc.

How long does it take to see improvements?

Typically, improvements can be seen in the first few weeks. Individuals may vary but are often slow and progressive over time.  Often patients may see some improvement initially then slowly taper off. Lifestyle changes also must be experienced. Continuing to moderate what is eaten, and exercise.

When should you avoid taking Allli?

Consult your medical specialist if you have the following:

1.)  Certain Medications for the following Conditions

–  Cardiovascular Disease
–  Diabetes
–  Irregular Heartbeat
–  HIV
–  Thyroid Disease
–  Seizures

2.)  The Following Conditions:

–  Gallbladder Problems
–  Irritable Bowel Syndrome
–  Kidney Disease
–  Pancreatitis

3.)  Don’t take if:

–  You are currently Healthy
–  Are taking Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, and others)
–  Are pregnant or breast-feeding
–  Have problems absorbing foods
–  Have had an organ transplant