Healthwise

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Orlistat Oral Capsule (ORLISTAT - ORAL)

For obesity or weight loss.

Brand Name(s): Alli, Xenical

Generic Name: Orlistat

Instructions

Take this medicine with or within 1 hour after a meal.

Take this medicine only if you eat a meal that contains fat. Do not use if you skip meals or eat a meal without fat.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

This medicine can reduce the absorption of other medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best times to use this product.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it if it has been less than 2 hours since you had your meal. If you don’t remember until after more than 2 hours since your meal, skip the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

You may need to take a vitamin while on this medicine. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • frequent bowel movements
  • inability to control bowel movements
  • excess gas
  • loose, oily stools

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • kidney stones
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

Due to the threat of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), we are taking precautionary measures to protect our staff and patients. We are implementing a temporary NO VISITOR policy at this time. Only patients or patients and their guardians will be allowed into the office. Please note, this is not to inconvenience anyone! The virus is a very real threat and it is essential that we stay healthy in order to provide needed care for our patients. If you are sick, we ask that you CALL the office to speak with a nurse before you come in. The nurse will provide specific instructions for you. Please DO NOT enter the office if you are sick (upper respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, or flu like symptoms). We are closely monitoring the situation and will update you as circumstances change. Thank you for your understanding!!