Orlistat

Generic Name : Orlistat

TradeName : STATOR, ARPITOR, ASTIN, ATCHOL

Overview : Orlistat is used for controlling obesity in overweight adults. It is also used to prevent the risk of weight gain after previous weight loss.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor which works by blocking the digestion of fats from the diet.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : Avoid using Orlistat if you are allergic to any ingredient in Orlistat, If you have problems absorbing food or bile flow problems, If you underwent an organ transplant, If you are take cyclosporine.

When it is to be taken : Adults and Children 12 yr of age and older PO 120 mg 3 times daily with each main meal containing fat, during or up to 1 h after meal. OTC Adults PO 60 mg with each fat-containing meal (max, 3 doses daily).

Missed a Dose? :
Take the missed dose within1 hour after eating a meal. If it has been more than one hour skip the missed dose and take the medication at your next regularly scheduled time. Avoid taking two pills at a time.

How it should be taken : It comes in the form of 60mg and 120 mgs tablets. • Take Orlistat by mouth with each fat containing meal. Avoid taking more than 3 capsules daily. • Incase you miss your meal do not take Orlistat . • Orlistat can reduce absorption of vitamins
. Take a multivitamin once a day at bedtime after consulting your doctor.

Special Instruction :
Inform to the doctor if you have complains of hypersensitivity to this drug and acute liver diseases. Orlistat increases the risk of kidney stones. Patients already having renal stones should ese it with caution. In diabetic patients, weight-loss is likely to reduce the blood sugar levels. The safety and efficacy of Orlistat in younger children less than 12 years have not been established.

Side Effects :
Abdominal pain,nausea,vomitting,hypo and hyperglycemia,chest pain,incontinence,oily spotting in undergarments, loose stools, inability to control bowel movements, an increased number of bowel movements, vomiting, diarrhea, rectal pain.

Other Precautions :
Patients are advised to report promptly unexplained muscle pain,tenderness or weakness,It should not be used with antacids as the drug interaction stake place.Contraindicated in pregnany and lactation.It may be used with caution in elderly.

Drug Interactions :
Before taking orlistat, consult with your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: • cyclosporine, • digoxin, • Anticoagulant such as warfarin

Storage Conditions :
Store at room temperature in a tight container.