FDA approves first over-the-counter weight-loss drug
The weight-loss drug orlistat (Xenical) was originally approved in 1999 as a prescription drug to treat obesity. Now, the Food and Drug Administration has approved a reduced-strength OTC version of orlistat (Alli) for adults age 18 and older.
Alli promotes weight loss by decreasing absorption of fat by the intestines. The capsules are taken with meals, up to three times a day. It sounds like a dieter's dream, but there are no shortcuts to permanent weight loss. Alli is intended to be used only with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise.
The most common side effects of Alli include diarrhea and gas with oily spotting. These and other bowel changes can be minimized by eating a low-fat diet. A daily multivitamin is recommended to offset the loss of fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamins A, D and E.
Alli shouldn't be taken by anyone who has a healthy weight, who's taking cyclosporine, who's had an organ transplant, or who has problems absorbing food. The drug also may pose risks for anyone who takes blood-thinning medication or has diabetes or thyroid disease. Some studies have associated the prescription-strength version of the drug with precancerous changes in the colon.
Alli promotes weight loss by decreasing absorption of fat by the intestines. The capsules are taken with meals, up to three times a day. It sounds like a dieter's dream, but there are no shortcuts to permanent weight loss. Alli is intended to be used only with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and regular exercise.
The most common side effects of Alli include diarrhea and gas with oily spotting. These and other bowel changes can be minimized by eating a low-fat diet. A daily multivitamin is recommended to offset the loss of fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamins A, D and E.
Alli shouldn't be taken by anyone who has a healthy weight, who's taking cyclosporine, who's had an organ transplant, or who has problems absorbing food. The drug also may pose risks for anyone who takes blood-thinning medication or has diabetes or thyroid disease. Some studies have associated the prescription-strength version of the drug with precancerous changes in the colon.
What does this mean to you? If you're struggling to lose excess weight or you have medical complications of obesity, an OTC weight-loss drug may be an appealing option. Remember, however, weight-loss drugs aren't a silver bullet for weight loss. And they aren't a good choice for everyone who's overweight.
It's best to lose weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise. But if you're already following a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and exercising regularly, Alli may help you lose additional pounds. Work with your health care provider to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of Alli or any other weight-loss drugs. As a team, you can create the most effective weight-loss plan for you.
What do you guys think? Is this the miracle pill we've been waiting for? Are you gonna try it?
1 comment:
You go first;)
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