What are the side effects of Orlistat weight loss pills

The common side effects of orlistat mainly include increased gastrointestinal exhaust, oily spots, urgency of defecation, fat diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. Orlistat is a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor that achieves weight loss by inhibiting fat absorption, but may be triggered by incomplete fat digestion.

1. Increased gastrointestinal exhaust

Orlistat can cause fermentation of undigested fat in the intestines, producing excess gas. Patients may frequently experience exhaust emissions, often accompanied by unpleasant odors. It is recommended to reduce high-fat diet intake and supplement probiotics appropriately to regulate gut microbiota.

2. Oil stains

Unabsorbed fat may be excreted with feces, causing orange or brownish yellow oil stains around underwear or anus. This phenomenon is directly related to the mechanism of drug action, and personal hygiene and cleanliness should be taken into account, and pads should be used if necessary.

3. Urgency of defecation

Some patients experience sudden urge to defecate after taking medication, which may be related to the stimulation of intestinal peristalsis by fat diarrhea. It is recommended to avoid staying away from the bathroom for a long time and to carry cleaning supplies with you when going out. If the symptoms continue to worsen, medical evaluation is required.

4. Fatty diarrhea

is typically characterized by loose and greasy stools floating on the water surface, and in severe cases, fecal incontinence may occur. This is related to medication blocking 30% of dietary fat absorption, usually reducing daily fat intake to below 20 grams can alleviate symptoms.

5. Abdominal pain

A small number of patients may experience abdominal cramps or discomfort, which may be related to intestinal spasms caused by poor fat digestion. It is recommended to take medication in small doses and avoid taking it with high-fat meals. If the pain persists or worsens, complications such as pancreatitis should be ruled out. During the use of orlistat, a low-fat balanced diet should be maintained, with daily fat intake controlled below 30% of total calories, and priority given to unsaturated fatty acids such as fish and nuts. Combining 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week can enhance weight loss effects. Long term medication users should regularly monitor their liver function and levels of fat soluble vitamins. If severe diarrhea or allergic reactions occur, they should immediately stop taking the medication and seek medical attention. Pregnant women, patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome, and those with cholestasis should not use this medication.