Contents
Capsules containing orlistat 60mg
Indication
Weight loss in adults with a BMI of 28 or over
Dosage
Adults 18 years and over: One capsule within an hour of each of three main meals. Maximum three capsules per day for up to 6 months. Use with a lower fat, mildly hypocaloric diet and exercise, both of which should be started before treatment. A vitamin supplement should be taken at bedtime as orlistat may interfere with absorption of fat soluble vitamins. Refer to GP or pharmacist if no weight loss after 12 weeks.
Caution
Should not be used by those who are taking anticoagulants or ciclosporin or have chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis. Those taking amiodarone or medication for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes may find the control of these conditions improves requiring alteration of therapy. Risk of GI symptoms increases with fat consumption.May cause oily and/or increased frequency of stools especially if fat intake is increased. See GP if rectal bleeding occurs.Oral contraceptive efficacy may be reduced if diarrhoea is severe - use additional contraception. Patients taking levothyroxine or anti-epileptics should consult a doctor before starting treatment.
Chapter
Weight control
Disclaimer
This information is provided for your reference only and it is not to be relied upon on its own as instructions for use of this medication. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances.
Other than liability for death or personal injury arising out of our negligence, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise.
Why do I need this medicine?
Orlistat is used to treat obesity in people with a body mass index (BMI) more than 30.
It can also be used to treat obesity in people with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol and a BMI more than 27.
Orlistat works by preventing your body from absorbing the fat in the food you eat. Fat that is not absorbed is passed out from your body in the stools.
Orlistat is meant to be taken as part of a complete weight management programme that should include exercise, a healthy diet and other lifestyle changes.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Orlistat exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than instructed by your doctor.
Orlistat should be taken with a meal -- it can be taken just before, during or up to one hour after a main meal. If you have missed a meal, or if you had a light meal that is almost fat-free, do not take that particular dose of Orlistat.
Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.
You may need to take Orlistat for some time before the full benefits can be felt.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have any of these conditions as Orlistat may not be suitable for you:
- gall bladder disease such as gall stones
- intestinal problems that affect the absorption of food
- eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia
- if you ever had an organ transplant
Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while being treated with Orlistat.
Orlistat is not meant for children younger than 18 years old.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you suffer from heart, thyroid, liver or kidney disease, kidney stones or diabetes. Alert your doctor if you ever had problems with your pancreas.
Orlistat may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K from your food. Your doctor may give you multivitamin supplements to prevent a lack of these vitamins in your body. These vitamin supplements should be taken two hours before or two hours after your dose of Orlistat.
What lifestyle changes should I make to lose weight and maintain my ideal weight?
A healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise are keys to helping you maintain your ideal weight. You should avoid relying only on medication to maintain your ideal weight. Try to control the type and amount of food you eat at each meal. Include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet. If you have not been exercising, start slow and gradually step up your exercise capacity. You will find that keeping to a regular exercise regimen is enjoyable and helps keep your weight off. If stress causes you to reach out for snacks too often, replace unhealthy snacks with healthier choices and learn to manage your stress levels. Alcohol also commonly causes weight gain. Try to avoid alcohol or set a limit on how much you drink.
Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they are overweight. Orlistat may not be suitable for everyone.
What side effects could I experience?
Since Orlistat prevents the absorption of fats, your stools will be oily and you may pass wind with oily discharge or spotting. You may also feel an urgent need to move your bowels, especially just after a high fat meal. These side effects can usually be reduced by taking meals that are low in fats.
Other common side effects of Orlistat include stomach discomfort, headache, back pain, menstrual irregularities, tiredness and flu-like symptoms.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Alert your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here:
- diabetes medicines especially acarbose
- warfarin (blood-thinning medicine)
- cholesterol medicines such as pravastatin
- cyclosporin (transplant medicine)
- amiodarone (heart medicine)
- other weight loss products
Orlistat reduces the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use extra birth control methods if you are taking Orlistat.
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take?
Avoid alcohol.
It is important for you to maintain a healthy, low-fat and balanced diet. To maximise benefits from Orlistat, avoid snacking on fatty food in between meals.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for your reference only and it is not to be relied upon on its own as instructions for use of this medication. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances.
Other than liability for death or personal injury arising out of our negligence, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise.