| Xenical blocks absorption of dietary fat into the bloodstream, thereby reducing the number of calories you get from a meal. At the usual dosage level, it cuts fat absorption by almost one-third. Combined with a low-calorie diet, it is used to promote weight loss and discourage the return of unwanted pounds.
Xenical is prescribed for the frankly obese and for merely overweight people who have other health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. Your weight status is determined by your body mass index (BMI), a comparison of height to weight.
The side effects seen with Xenical are related to the reduced absorption of fat from your diet. Gastrointestinal (GI) side effects may last for less than one week, but have occurred for up to 6 months or longer. Maintaining an appropriate diet can help decrease side effects. The use of Xenical for greater than 2 years has not been studied.
Side effects of Xenical that you should report to your prescriber as soon as possible:
• arthritis or joint pain/tenderness
• back pain
Side effects of Xenical that usually do not require medical attention:
• abdominal discomfort
• increased number of bowel movements
• loss of control of bowel movements
• urgent need to go to the bathroom
• gas with release of stool
• oily/fatty stools
• oily discharge
• clear, orange or brown colored bowel movements
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