What are the side effects of Orlistat

Orlistat may cause gastrointestinal reactions, lipid soluble vitamin deficiencies, allergic reactions, liver dysfunction, urinary system stones, and other side effects. Orlistat is a weight loss medication used to treat obesity, which reduces fat absorption by inhibiting lipase in the gastrointestinal tract, but may also cause some adverse reactions.

1. Gastrointestinal reactions

The most common side effects of orlistat are gastrointestinal reactions, including oily spots, increased gastrointestinal exhaust, urgency of bowel movements, fat diarrhea, and increased frequency of bowel movements. These symptoms are usually caused by drugs that inhibit fat absorption, resulting in unabsorbed fat being directly excreted from the body. Most patients experience these symptoms during the initial stages of medication, which may gradually alleviate with prolonged use. It is recommended that patients maintain a low-fat diet during medication to avoid excessive intake of high-fat foods that can burden the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Lipid soluble vitamin deficiency

Long term use of orlistat may lead to lipid soluble vitamin deficiency, including vitamins A, D, E, K, etc. These vitamins require fat as a carrier to be absorbed by the human body, and orlistat reduces fat absorption, thereby affecting the absorption and utilization of these vitamins. Patients may experience symptoms such as night blindness, osteoporosis, and coagulation dysfunction. It is recommended to supplement fat soluble vitamins appropriately under the guidance of a doctor, preferably taking the supplement 2 hours before or after medication.

3. Allergic reactions

A small number of patients may experience allergic reactions to orlistat, manifested as skin symptoms such as rash, itching, urticaria, and angioedema. In severe cases, life-threatening reactions such as difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock may occur. Once allergic symptoms appear, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention. Patients with a history of drug allergies should use medication with caution under the guidance of a doctor, and closely monitor for any allergic reactions after the first use of medication.

4. Abnormal liver function

Orlistat may cause abnormal liver function, manifested as elevated transaminases, jaundice, and other symptoms. Although the incidence is not high, severe cases may result in liver injury or even liver failure. During medication, liver function should be regularly monitored. If symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, darkened urine color, and yellow skin or eye hair appear, medical attention should be sought immediately. Patients with a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function should use this medication with caution.

5. Urinary system stones

Long term use of orlistat may increase the risk of urinary system stones, especially calcium oxalate stones. This is because unabsorbed fatty acids bind to calcium in the intestine, reducing the binding of calcium to oxalic acid, resulting in an increase in free oxalic acid in the intestine. After absorption, it is excreted through the kidneys, increasing the concentration of oxalic acid in urine. It is recommended to drink plenty of water during medication, maintain sufficient urine output, limit intake of high oxalate foods, and supplement calcium supplements under the guidance of a doctor if necessary. During the use of Orlistat, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, control fat intake appropriately but avoid excessive dieting, and ensure sufficient intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Moderate exercise can improve weight loss effectiveness, reduce medication dosage and the risk of side effects. Regular follow-up should be conducted during medication to monitor weight changes and adverse reactions. If there are serious side effects or poor weight loss results, timely medical attention should be sought to adjust the treatment plan. Special populations such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women, children, the elderly, and patients with chronic diseases should use it with caution under the guidance of a doctor. Any weight loss medication should only be considered for use when lifestyle interventions are ineffective, and cannot replace a healthy diet and regular exercise.