Xenical 120 mg is a weight loss medication containing the active ingredient Orlistat at a concentration of 120 mg. It works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the absorption of a portion of dietary fats and lowers the total amount of absorbed calories. This medication is used alongside a low-calorie, low-fat diet and regular physical activity to treat obesity or overweight accompanied by health risk factors. It also contributes to minimizing weight regain after initial weight loss.
What is Xenical 120 mg used for?
Xenical 120 mg is used for:
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Assisting in weight loss in obese individuals.
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Supporting weight maintenance after reaching the target weight.
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Reducing the likelihood of regaining lost weight.
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Serving as part of a comprehensive program that includes a low-calorie, low-fat diet and physical activity.
It is typically prescribed for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater, or 25 kg/m² or greater when accompanied by other health risk factors such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), or dyslipidemia (lipid disorders).
How to Use Xenical orlistat 120mg
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The standard dose is one capsule (120 mg) three times daily with each main meal containing fat.
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The capsule can be taken immediately before, during, or up to 1 hour after finishing the meal.
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If a meal is missed or contains no fat, the dose should be omitted.
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It is advised to follow a balanced diet where fat intake does not exceed approximately 30% of total daily calories, distributed evenly across main meals.
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It is preferable to take a multivitamin supplement containing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) at least 2 hours before or after taking Xenical, ideally at bedtime.
Xenical orlistat side effects
The most common side effects include:
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Oily or fatty stools.
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Increased frequency of bowel movements or an urgent need to defecate.
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Oily spotting from the rectum.
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Flatulence (gas) accompanied by discharge.
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Abdominal pain or discomfort.
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Loose stools or diarrhea.
Rare side effects may include:
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Liver inflammation or damage.
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Development of kidney stones or kidney function impairment.
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Severe allergic reactions.
Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark-colored urine, severe abdominal pain, or signs of a serious allergic reaction develop.
Precautions and Warnings
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Do not use Xenical if you have a known allergy to orlistat or any of the medication's other ingredients.
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It should not be used in patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis.
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It is not recommended during pregnancy, and should not be used during breastfeeding unless explicitly advised by a physician.
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The drug may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins; therefore, your doctor may recommend appropriate nutritional supplements.
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Adhering strictly to a low-fat diet is advised to minimize the occurrence of gastrointestinal side effects.
Drug Interactions
Xenical may interact with certain medications. You must inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements before starting treatment, particularly:
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Cyclosporine.
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Levothyroxine.
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Warfarin and other anticoagulants.
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Amiodarone.
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Certain antiepileptic drugs (seizure medications).
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Certain medications used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
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Certain antieabetic medications, as dosages may require adjustment as weight is lost and blood sugar control improves.
Storage and Handling
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Store at a temperature below 25°C.
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Keep inside the original packaging, away from moisture and light.
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Keep out of reach of children.
Ingredients
Active Ingredient:
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Orlistat 120 mg per capsule.
Inactive Ingredients:
The capsules may contain excipients, such as:
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Microcrystalline cellulose.
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Sodium starch glycolate.
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Povidone.
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Sodium lauryl sulfate.
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Talc.
The capsule shell contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and specific food colorings.
