What to Know While Taking Xenical (Orlistat)

Obesity has become an epidemic, especially in the United States of America. Many people have been asking for a miracle drug which would promise to help lose weight. In a way, Xenical (Orlistat) has become just that. Xenical (Orlistat) is prescribed to help others lose weight, and it's usually paired with a low-calorie diet. Xenical (Orlistat) is also very helpful in maintaining your new and 'improved' body for a long time after you have lost the weight. One of the nice benefits concerning Xenical (Orlistat) is that it can be used in patients who have problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Xenical (Orlistat) is a lipase inhibitor. This means that it works on your intestinal system. It is here where it blocks thirty percent of the fat from being absorbed into your system. The rest is excreted out the rectum with your fecal matter...and straight in the toilet where it deserves to go!

Xenical (Orlistat) is taken orally three times a day with each main course which contains a high amount of fat. It is recommended that Xenical (Orlistat) be taken during or up to one hour after a meal. You do not have to take Xenical (Orlistat) if your meal is very light and not abundant in fatty substances. If you're a patient who is allergic to Orlistat, or who has ever suffered from anorexia, bulimia, gallstones, thyroid disease, diabetes, malabsorption syndrome (problems absorbing your food), or if you're taking any blood thinners, alert your doctor immediately. Xenical (Orlistat) may react negatively in your body otherwise.

If your doctor has provided a diet program for you, it's extremely important that you follow it for best results. It's no use to take a pill that removes thirty percent of your fat intake when you're making it up with extra food with extra fat at every meal. The more fat a meal contains, the more side effects you will experience with Xenical (Orlistat). Since Xenical (Orlistat) blocks your body's ability to use fat-soluble vitamins efficiently, it's important to take a multi-vitamin to make sure that you're absorbing all the nutrients that your body needs. When taking the multi-vitamin, make sure to take it two hours before or two hours after taking your Xenical (Orlistat), or better yet, take it when you're going to bed to avoid any interactions with Xenical (Orlistat). If you forget to take a dose of Xenical (Orlistat), take it as soon as you remember unless it's been more than an hour since you last ate a meal. Otherwise, it would not be effective at all. Never take a double dose at one time to make up for the one you missed. This is very unwise and can result in unpleasant and embarrassing side effects.

The side effects from taking Xenical (Orlistat) mostly involve those that are intestinally related. You will definitely notice a change in your bowel movements after taking Xenical (Orlistat). You may also experience unexpected spotting which tends to be very oily. You'll probably notice an urgent need to use the restroom, and even uncontrollable flatulence! You should also be aware that Xenical (Orlistat) can cause irregular menstrual cycles, as well as orange/brown colored feces. If you experience any itching, skin redness, hives, swelling, chest pains, breathing difficulties, or fever, contact you doctor immediately. These signs indicate an allergic reaction to Xenical (Orlistat), and the problem must be taken care of as soon as possible.

Always keep Xenical (Orlistat) out if the reach of children and sunlight, and keep it tightly closed at all times. Also, remember to keep it away from damp places, such as restrooms. Otherwise, the potency of Xenical (Orlistat) may be lessened. If you notice that your Xenical (Orlistat) is expired, or if you do not need it anymore, throw any excess medication away. Do not share it with family and friends. A prescription is for you and you alone. If you do otherwise, it would be considered a breach regarding the law, and you may have to pay consequences for such an action. Remember that part of losing weight is losing calories. Add regular physical activity in your life while taking Xenical (Orlistat) to enhance the weight losing process. Walk your dog, take a job, or even ride a bicycle at a leisurely pace. Never over-exert yourself, and always take Xenical (Orlistat) responsibly. It's not a miracle pill, but a huge aid to your diet and maybe it's the boost that you always needed to help jump start your fitness and wellness program.