Mechanism of action:
The Xenical generic is very simple in action: It is directed at the digestive system and blocks approximately one-third of the fats absorbed with food and digested by the body. This system provides an effective rate of weight loss, with visible results after the first 2 weeks.
Drug efficacy:
Enzymes in the digestive system called lipase assist in the fat digestion (or destruction). When administered with food, the Xenical (Orlistat) drug binds to the lipase, thereby inhibiting its effect. By blocking these enzymes, the Xenical generic contributes to a loss of up to 20% of body weight per cycle.
Advantages:
- The Xenical generic blocks about 33% of fats ingested while eating and stops their digestion in the body;
- Orlistat has been approved by the FDA since 1999. The drug is used by millions of men and women around the world;
- The therapeutic effect of the drug is observed after 1-2 days from the start of the treatment;
- The activity of lipases of the gastrointestinal tract is completely restored 2 days after discontinuation of the drug;
- As compared to other drugs, the Xenical generic has minimal side effects.
Method of administration:
Xenical is prescribed 1 capsule 1-3 times a day during each significant meal or not later than one hour after a meal. Do not administer more than 1 capsule of the drug at a time (or more than 3 capsules per day), as this does not lead to increased efficacy, but increases the likelihood of side effects.
Xenical is suitable for long-term use, and to enhance the therapeutic effect the administration should be combined with a moderate caloric balanced diet.
Special instructions:
Simultaneous administration of Xenical with oral contraceptives, statins, cardiac glycosides, fibrates, warfarin, and alcohol is allowed.
The drug reduces the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine, so multivitamins should be administered no earlier than 2 hours after administering Xenical (preferably before bedtime).
It is not recommended to administer Xenical simultaneously with acarbose in the absence of confirmed data on the interaction of these drugs. It is not recommended to combine the drug with the antiepileptic drugs (there were noted cases of seizures).
When placing on Xenical to reduce body weight in diabetic patients, blood sugar should be carefully monitored, since it may be necessary to reduce the dose of hypoglycemic drugs.
Side effects:
Like other drugs, the Xenical generic can cause side effects. It is important to note that if side effects occur after starting the course of treatment with Xenical, immediately consult a doctor. The incidence of side effects increases with frequent use of fatty foods. The incidence of these side effects is most often observed at the beginning of administration and terminates within 1-3 months thereafter.
Below are listed the most common side effects of the drug:
- Oily defecation;
- Frequent defecation;
- Orange or brown liquid in the defecation.
These changes are caused by the natural effect of fats blocking. They testify that Xenical (Orlistat) works. As a rule, they arise at the beginning of treatment, especially after a meal containing an increased amount of fat.
All of the above symptoms are temporary, as soon as you continue the course of treatment with Xenical (Orlistat), the symptoms will decrease or completely disappear.
Method of storage:
Keep the drug at room temperature (15-30 °C), protect from moisture and light. Keep away from children.
