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If you are struggling to lose weight, you may have heard about Orlistat. This prescription medication has been proven to be effective for weight loss in numerous clinical trials. However, before you start taking Orlistat, there are several important things you need to know to ensure that it’s the right choice for you.
What is Orlistat?
Orlistat is a medication that helps people lose weight by preventing the body from absorbing some of the fat they eat. It works by blocking enzymes called lipases, which break down fat in the intestines. This means that the fat passes through your body undigested, reducing the number of calories your body can absorb.
Orlistat is available in two forms: prescription-strength and over-the-counter. Click here to learn more about Orlistat 120mg. Before taking Orlistat, it’s essential to understand the potential benefits and risks.
The Benefits of Orlistat
Clinical studies have found that taking Orlistat can help people lose more weight compared to diet and exercise alone. One study found that people who took Orlistat lost an average of 11.7 pounds over six months, while people who followed a diet and exercise program in the same period of time lost an average of 8.6 pounds.
Orlistat has also been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in people who are overweight and obese. A study found that people who took Orlistat had an almost 40% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to people who did not.
The Risks of Orlistat
As with any medication Orlistat has some potential side effects. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal including increased bowel movements, oily or fatty stools, and flatulence. These side effects occur because Orlistat prevents the absorption of some dietary fat, which passes through the digestive system and is excreted in the stool.
Less common side effects of Orlistat include headaches, abdominal pain, and nausea. In rare cases, Orlistat can cause severe liver injury. Before taking Orlistat, it’s important to speak to your doctor about any potential side effects.
Who Should Take Orlistat?
Orlistat is recommended for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Orlistat should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional, who will assess your suitability for the medication.
This medication is not recommended for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with a history of kidney stones or pancreatitis, or people taking cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant drug. It is also worth noting that Orlistat can interact with other medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications, so it’s essential to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.
How to Take Orlistat
Orlistat should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. If you are taking the prescription-strength medication, you will usually be directed to take one 120mg capsule with each meal that contains fat. If you are taking the over-the-counter version, you will likely be directed to take one 60mg capsule with each fat-containing meal.
It’s essential to follow a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet while taking this medication, as a diet that is high in fat can increase the risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider can help you create a healthy eating plan that is appropriate for your dietary needs and weight loss goals.
It is also recommended to take a daily multi-vitamin supplement while taking Orlistat. The medication can interfere with the body’s absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. So, taking a multi-vitamin will ensure that your body is getting all essential nutrients.
Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise can help enhance the weight loss benefits of Orlistat. Exercise can help to boost your metabolism and burn more calories, leading to greater weight loss results.
Before Taking Orlistat
It’s important to note that Orlistat is not a miracle pill, and it might not work for everybody. While it can be effective for some people, others may experience unpleasant side effects or not see significant weight loss. Those looking for an alternative solution for lasting weight loss can potentially look into bariatric surgery procedures like a sleeve gastrectomy.
While taking this medication, the most important thing is to have realistic expectations. Focus on making long-term lifestyle changes to support your weight loss and overall health. If necessary, you may want to consider seeking support from a dietician, personal trainer, or other professional who can help you get the most from Orlistat by supporting this medication with a healthy eating plan and regular exercise routine.
With the right approach and guidance, Orlistat can be an effective tool to help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health and wellbeing. By understanding the potential benefits and risks and sticking to a healthy lifestyle, you can increase your chance of success.