Xenical
Xenical is a weight loss medication used to treat obesity and assist patients in trying to reduce their BMI. Xenical works by blocking chemicals (enzymes) in your gut that digest fat. Nearly a third of the fat that you eat is blocked by Xenical. The undigested fat is not absorbed into your body and is passed out with your stools (feces). This can include fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, therefore it is recommended to take a multivitamin whilst taking Xenical.
Xenical is the branded version of Orlistat
It comes as a capsule and is a prescription-only medication
Orlistat, also known by the brand Xenical, is an approved weight loss medication. Orlistat 120mg capsules are designed to interfere with the way dietary fat is digested in the intestine and absorbed into the body. Undigested fat is instead excreted from the body when you use the toilet.
There are risks of possible side effects when using Xenical, as with any medication. Most side effects are quite mild and subside over time. Others can be more serious and, in this stance, should be reported to your GP right away when using Xenical. Feel free to contact a member of our team if you have any questions regarding the side effects and use of Xenical capsules.
Common side effects can include:
· Smelly stools
· Excessive wind
· Abdominal pain
· Oily rectal discharge
· Liquid or oily stools
These side effects are less likely to occur if you stick to a low-fat diet
You should stop using Xenical and inform your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects
· Signs of an allergic reaction (Difficulty breathing, talking, or swelling of the face and tongue)
· Wheezing and struggling to breathe
· Rash or blistering of the skin
How do I take Xenical capsules?
Xenical should be taken three times daily with or up to 1 hour after eating a fat-containing meal. However, you do not need to take one if there is no fat in the meal or if you miss a meal.
Who can use Xenical?
Xenical is licensed for patients with a BMI over 30 or patients who have a BMI over 28 and suffering from a medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Can I use Xenical alongside other weight loss treatments?
It is not recommended to take any other weight loss treatments but you should maintain a strict diet regime and regular exercise. This will ensure the best results when taking Xenical. It is also recommended to a multivitamin at bedtime to ensure replace the vitamins not being absorbed by the body.
Can I use Xenical if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to get pregnant, it is recommended not to take Xenical
How long will it take Xenical to work?
This can vary from patient to patient but results can be seen after 14 days. If weight loss of 5% is not achieved within 12 weeks there are a variety of treatments that can be trialled and you should consult your doctor
How long should I use Xenical for?
Xenical should be used for as long as it is prescribed by your doctor. If there are no improvements after 12 weeks (3 months) then your doctor should be consulted to discuss an alternative. If a weight loss of 5% is not achieved then it should be stopped in 3 months
Can I buy Xenical over the counter?
Xenical can only be obtained with a prescription, which means it can’t be bought over the counter at your local pharmacy. You can get it online at Pharmacy7days. You will need to complete an online medical prescriber to ensure it is appropriate for you.
Before taking any medicines such as this Orlistat treatment, regardless of whether they are over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2592.pdf