Xenical

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking orlistat?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to orlistat, or if you have:

• chronic malabsorption syndrome (an inability to absorb food and nutrients properly); or

• gallbladder problems.

Before taking orlistat, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• an underactive thyroid;

• a history of kidney stones;

• a history of pancreatitis;

• type 1 or type 2 diabetes;

• an eating disorder (anorexia or bulimia); or

• if you take any other weight-loss medications (prescription or over-the-counter).

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use orlistat, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Taking orlistat can make it harder for your body to absorb certain vitamins. These vitamins are important if you are nursing a baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give over-the-counter orlistat (Alli) to a child younger than 18 years old. Prescription orlistat (Xenical) should not be used by anyone age 12 to 18 without the advice of a doctor. Orlistat should be used only by the person it was prescribed or recommended for and should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of eating disorder. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.