The only nationally certified weight loss medication

As of now, the only approved weight loss drug in China is orlistat. Orlistat is a potent and long-lasting specific gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor. It forms covalent bonds with the active serine sites of gastric lipase and pancreatic lipase in the stomach and small intestine lumen, inactivating the enzymes and exerting therapeutic effects. The principle of weight loss mainly lies in preventing the hydrolysis and absorption of fat in food. When the activity of lipase is inhibited, undigested triglycerides cannot be absorbed by the body and are directly excreted, reducing calorie intake and achieving the effect of weight loss. The use of Orlistat is not without risks and side effects. Common adverse reactions include oily spots, increased gastrointestinal exhaust, urgency of bowel movements, fatty stools, fatty diarrhea, increased frequency of bowel movements, and fecal incontinence. Long term use may also affect the absorption of vitamins and other nutrients, and appropriate supplementation is needed. Although orlistat is a nationally certified weight loss medication, it is not suitable for everyone. Before use, professional medical personnel should be consulted and guided by a doctor in a scientific and reasonable manner.