Diet pills FAQ: Xenical

The diet pill Xenical (Orlistat) can help you to drop 10% of your body weight, but how does it work? What are the side-effects of this weight loss pill and where can you get it?

What is it and how does it work?
Xenical is a lipase-inhibitor which reduces the amount of fat absorbed by the small intestine by about one-third.

Who is it suitable for and how do I get it?
NHS patients must have a body mass index (BMI) of 28 or more to be eligible for treatment with the drugs Xenical and Reductil. However some private slimming clinics will also prescribe them, for a price, but this isn't a recommended source.

Do you still need to diet and exercise while on Xenical?
Yes. Xenical should only be prescribed after dietary and lifestyle changes suggested by your doctor have been attempted for one to three months with no improvement. But it's recommended that you keep to a low-fat diet while on the pills to minimise side-effects. You're also recommended to take more exercise.

Does it work?
The outlook is positive. Clinical trials have show that almost twice as many patients who received Xenical, achieved an average weight loss of 10 percent or more of their body weight in one year, compared to those on diet alone.

Are there any side-effects?
There can be. Patients are encouraged to have a low-fat diet to avoid unpleasant side-effects of anal leakage and oily stools.

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