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Orlistat: uses, side effects & brands
Orlistat aids weight loss by reducing fat absorption from food. It belongs to the Liver & miscellaneous group. These support the liver, gallstones or metabolism in specific conditions.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Liver & miscellaneous |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Weight loss with a lower-calorie, lower-fat diet
- Weight management in obesity, especially with high blood pressure or diabetes
- Helping keep weight off after weight loss
Common brand names
- India: Obelit, Vyfat, Xenical
- Worldwide: Xenical, Alli
Common side effects
- Oily spotting or oily stools
- Wind with discharge
- Urgent bowel movements
- Tummy pain
Before taking it — precautions
- A low-fat diet reduces bowel side effects
- It can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins; a multivitamin at bedtime may be advised
- Tell the doctor if on warfarin, levothyroxine, epilepsy medicines or HIV medicines
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe tummy pain (urgent)
- Yellow skin or eyes or dark urine
- Rash, swelling or breathing difficulty (urgent)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of orlistat depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I get oily stools?
Orlistat stops some fat from being absorbed, so it passes out. Eating less fat reduces this.
Is orlistat safe in pregnancy?
No, it is not used in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Does it work without a diet?
Benefit is modest and depends on a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and activity.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.