Xenical, containing orlistat, works by preventing your body from absorbing about 30% of the dietary fat you consume. This happens through a specific mechanism: Orlistat inhibits pancreatic lipases, enzymes crucial for breaking down dietary fats into absorbable fatty acids.
How Orlistat Works: A Step-by-Step Process
You eat a meal containing fat. Pancreatic lipases begin breaking down the fat for absorption. Orlistat binds to these lipases, disabling their ability to work. Undigested fat passes through your digestive system and is eliminated in your stool.
This undigested fat contributes to weight loss because fewer calories are absorbed. Remember, orlistat doesn’t affect all fat absorption, and its impact varies depending on dietary fat intake.
Important Considerations:
- Orlistat can cause gastrointestinal side effects like oily stools, gas, and urgent bowel movements. These are often dose-related; lower fat intake reduces their severity. It’s crucial to follow a low-fat diet when using Orlistat. This maximizes its effectiveness and minimizes side effects. Orlistat isn’t a magic bullet. Combine it with a balanced diet and regular exercise for best weight management results. Consult your doctor before starting Orlistat, particularly if you have any pre-existing health conditions, are taking other medications, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins: A Note of Caution
Because Orlistat reduces fat absorption, it might slightly reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). A balanced diet usually provides sufficient amounts, but your doctor may recommend a multivitamin supplement.
