Orlistat
Active Ingredients: Orlistat
Other Names: Xenical Capsules
Drug Class: Lipase Inhibitors
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions: 
What is/are Orlistat?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?
What is/are Orlistat?
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Orlistat is used to help obese people lose weight and keep the weight off while eating a reduced-calorie diet. This medicine decreases the amount of fat that is absorbed from your diet.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions: - an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia
- gallbladder problems or gallstones
- problems absorbing food
- an unusual or allergic reaction to orlistat, other medicines, foods, dyes, supplements or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with each main meal that contains about 30 percent of the calories from fat or one hour after the meal. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. If you occasionally miss a meal or have a meal without fat, you can skip that dose of this medicine.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, take it within one hour following the meal that contains fat. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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- cyclosporine
- dietary supplements like beta-carotene and vitamins A, D, E, and K
- warfarin
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: - allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- arthritis or joint pain, tenderness
- breathing problems
- feeling faint. lightheaded
- nausea, vomiting
- stomach pain
- uncontrolled, urgent bowel movements
- yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):- clear, orange or brown colored bowel movements
- increased number of bowel movements
- oily stools
- stomach discomfort, gas
This list may not describe all possible side effects.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Changes in your eyesight, skin or hair may be signs of a vitamin deficiency. Since this medicine can cause decreased absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins, you may need to take a daily multivitamin that contains normal amounts of vitamins D, E, K and beta-carotene. Take the multivitamin once per day at least 2 hours after your dose of this medicine unless otherwise directed by your doctor or healthcare professional.
You should use this medicine with a reduced-calorie diet that contains no more than about 30 percent of the calories from fat. Divide your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein evenly over your 3 main meals. You should try to follow a healthy eating plan like the one developed by the American Heart Association. Following this eating plan can help reduce the possible side effects from this medicine.
Where should I keep this medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Storage at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Last Updated:March 27, 2007 COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company |
