Xenical

XENICAL DRUG INFO

ORLISTAT - ORAL (tret-ih-NO-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Xenical

Uses:

This medication is used to help significantly overweight individuals lose weight in combination with a reduced-calorie diet. It also prevents regaining previously lost weight. It works by blocking some of the fat normally digested by the intestine.

How to Use:

This medication comes as in a pill form and it generally taken three times a day during each meal or up to an hour after. It is important to spread your daily intake of fat, protein, and carbohydrates evenly between the three main meals. If a meal is skipped or it does not contain any fat, skip that dose of medication, because it could interfere with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. If taking a multivitamin do so at least two hours before or after taking this medication. Patients using this medication can possible start seeing result one to two days after treatment, however noticeable weight loss will take longer. Always follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Take exactly as directed, and never take more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effects:

The most common side effects while taking this medication are: Fatty/oily stool, oily spotting, and intestinal gas with discharge, bowel movement urgency, poor bowel control, or headaches. These are usually mild, however if they persist or worsen contact your personal physician promptly. Intestinal side effects such as oily stool may increase in intensity if you exceed your daily dietary fat allowance. While side effects are uncommon if you experience any side effect that has not been mentioned, contact your local pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Precautions:

It is important to tell your doctor your entire medical history, including having a history of: allergies, digestive disorders (malabsorption or cholestasis), low thyroid function (hypothyroidism), other metabolism problems (e.g., oxalate kidney stones, hyperoxaluria). This medication should not be used by those who have anorexia nervosa or bulimia-type eating disorders. Always inform your doctor of the medications you are taking including all prescription, non-prescription drugs, and vitamins. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding need to consult their doctor about all of the risks and benefits of this medication. It is important to tell you doctor if you become pregnant while using this medication.

Drug Interactions:

It is important to always notify your physician of all prescription and nonprescription drugs that you may be taking, especially: cyclosporine, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), drugs for diabetes (e.g., insulin), other drugs used for weight loss. Cyclosporine should be taken at least 2 hours before or after Orlistat to assure maximum absorption of the cyclosporine into your bloodstream. Never start or stop the use of any medication with consulting your doctor or pharmacist for approval.

Overdose:

Notes:

Never share any prescription medication with others. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor while using this medication. Follow the diet that you and your doctor have discussed which should contain 30 percent calories from fat. It is important to exercise, however discuss any new exercise plan with your doctor before starting.

Missed Dose:

In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to the next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication.

Storage:

This medication needs to be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and moisture. The best temperature should be around 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Important Note:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.