Orlistat

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used to help you lose weight.

How does it work?

• Orlistat prevents absorption of about 30% of fat eaten.

How is it best taken?

• Take three times a day with each main meal containing fat.
• If there is no fat in the meal, do not take a dose of orlistat.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Take a missed dose near the meal or at the end of the meal.
• Take your next dose with the next meal. Return to your regular schedule.
• Do not take a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Vitamins should be taken 2 hours before or 2 hours after this medicine.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• Do not use in pregnancy and do not get pregnant. Use birth control that you can trust while taking this medicine.
• Do not use if you are breast-feeding.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Gas with discharge, oily spotting, and feeling the need to go to the bathroom.
• The more fat in the diet the more side effects you will have.

What should I monitor?

• Check weight weekly.
• Follow diet plan and exercise program as recommended by healthcare provider.
• Follow up with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe diarrhea.
• Any rash.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store in a tight, light-resistant container at room temperature.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).

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