AllAAlli (Raw Orlistat powder)
is an over-the-counter medication used to help people lose weight.
Studies have shown that Alli can help people lose more weight than
dieting alone. The weight loss drug is intended for overweight adults
ages 18 and older who also follow a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet.
A stronger dose of the same active ingredient in Alli is available by
prescription and is sold under the brand name Xenical. Xenical may also
be recommended after weight loss surgery to help patients keep off the
lost pounds.
Alli belongs to a class of drugs called lipase inhibitors. It blocks the
intestines from absorbing about 25% of the fat that you eat. Fats that
aren’t absorbed leave your body through bowel movements. Some data
suggest that Alli helps reduce the amount of a particularly dangerous
type of belly fat called visceral fat, which has been linked to type 2
diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
If you’re overweight, and dieting and exercise haven't worked for you,
talk to your doctor about a weight management program that involves
medication. But remember, you still must follow a healthy lifestyle that
involves regular exercise and eating right.
To determine if you’re overweight, you can calculate your body mass
index (BMI) using your height and weight information. A BMI of 18.5 to
24.9 is considered a healthy weight. A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered
overweight.
Alli comes in capsule form. It’s taken by mouth three times a day,
either with a meal that contains a little bit of fat, or up to one hour
afterward. If you eat a no-fat meal, your doctor may tell you to skip
your dose. Never take more medicine than recommended.
It’s important to follow a low-calorie, low-fat diet while taking this
medication. If you eat a lot of fatty foods, even just one high-fat meal
like a greasy burger, you’re more likely to have uncomfortable
digestive side effects. Choose lean cuts of meat and low-fat dairy
products. In general, no more than 30% of your calories at each meal
should come from fat.
