Xenical (orlistat) is recommended for weight reduction in overweight or obese men and women as well as for individuals who have other weight-related medical concerns, such as high blood pressure.

It aids with both weight loss and the prevention of weight being regained. It is usually prescribed along with a plan for appropriate exercise and calorie restriction.

Xenical Really Works:

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of pills on the market claiming to help with weight loss. Many are notorious for being ineffective. But some really do work -- and Xenical is one of them.

It's so effective because it prevents the absorption of fat molecules into the circulatory system, thus decreasing the amount of calories obtained from meals. For most patients this dietary change is reflected in fatty or oily bowel movements as undigested fat is expelled from the body.

Administration is generally the same for all patients; 1 pill is taken during or within 60 minutes of a meal containing fat. A pill can skipped during fat-free meals and should not be taken without a meal; doing so will provide no benefit.

Measurable weight loss is usually noticed within 14 days and continues for 6 to 12 months or longer. Of course, weight loss will be more dramatic if Xenical is used in conjunction with regular exercise and healthy, nutritional foods, but most patients notice moderate weight loss even without.

Not Just for Weight Reduction:

As mentioned earlier, Xenical is often given to individuals who are experiencing other, weight-related medical conditions:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol/triglyceride levels
• Diabetes
• Heart disease

While most people wouldn't mind losing a few pounds, in the case of the above conditions weight loss is imperative to maintain quality of life and prevent untimely demise. In many cases even very moderate weight loss results in a dramatic improvement of related symptoms.

Xenical does not directly treat any other conditions. Other medications, such as to lower blood pressure, may continue to be used along with Xenical.

People who are extremely overweight or ill are often unable to perform traditional exercises. For these individuals Xenical provides a jump-start on losing weight until the patient is better able to take control of the situation.

It's important to have a doctor approve any plans for dieting or exercise and get regular checkups for the duration of treatment.

Xenical is Not for Everyone:

This treatment is not for people who wish to lose a few pounds before the high school reunion next weekend. It's a long term weight-loss therapy for individuals who are determined to improve their lifestyles.

Xenical use can be dangerous in patients with certain health conditions:

• Malabsorption syndrome (unable absorb food well)
• Cholestasis or gallbladder problems
• Liver failure
• Any organ transplant

It should be used with caution in patients who have:

• Thyroid problems
• History of gallstones
• Liver disease
• Pancreatitis

Xenical is not directly harmful to unborn or nursing babies; however, it does inhibit absorption of vitamins and minerals essential to development and growth. It should never be used by pregnant or breast-feeding mothers. For the same reasons, it should be used only with physician supervision in still-growing children or teenagers.

Side Effects:

The most common side effects associated with Xenical are not serious and may pass as the body adjusts:

• Fatty or oily stools
• Increased frequency of bowel movements
  
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements
• Gassiness, which may cause oily spotting on underwear
• Changes to menstrual cycles

Very rarely more serious side effects result and should be seen by a physician before continuing treatment:

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Dark urine
• Pain in upper right side of the stomach

Hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing or swallowing indicate an allergic reaction. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if this happens.