Orlistat
Generic Details
Generic Name
Orlistat
Other Names
- Alli
Drug Class
- Lipase inhibitor
Chemical Formula
C29H53NO5
Molecular Weight
495.7 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits gastrointestinal lipase enzyme
Indications
- Weight management in obesity
- Weight maintenance
Common Dosage Forms
- Capsules
Typical Dosage
- 120 mg three times a day with each main meal containing fat
Pediatric Dosage
- Not recommended for children under 12 years old
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustment may be needed in elderly patients
Side Effects
- Oily spotting
- Flatulence
- Fatty or oily stools
- Abdominal cramping
Contraindications
- Chronic malabsorption syndrome
- Cholestasis
Pregnancy Category
- Category X - Not recommended during pregnancy
Lactation Safety
- Safety not established, avoid use during lactation
Drug Interactions
- Cyclosporine
- Warfarin
- Thyroid medications
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe gastrointestinal effects
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption
- Distribution: Not extensively bound to plasma proteins
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract
- Excretion: Primarily feces
Precautions
- Monitor for vitamin deficiency
- Take multivitamin supplement
Warnings
- Do not use if not overweight
- Low-fat diet recommended to minimize side effects
Others
- Follow a low-calorie, low-fat diet for best results