xenical-orlistat.jpg Obesity has become a national epidemic. Most people ignore the risks of an unhealthy lifestyles, fast foods and lack of exercise. Due to this, almost 90 per cent of the adult population in the US is overweight. This, in turn, has given rise to a billion dollar industry. In view of this, it is welcome that the FDA has approved Orlistat as an over-the-counter drug for weight loss. The FDA had earlier approved of this as a prescription drug for obesity in 1999.

Drug Reivew
a. This drug will be manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline under the name Alli.
b. It can be used by adults of 18 years and older.
c. A low-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program is to be followed to complement the drug.
d. This drug decreases the intestinal absorption of fat and should not be used by people who have digestion problems or by those with organ transplants.
e. People with thyroid problems or diabetes should consult a doctor before going in for this drug.
f. It can be taken 3 times a day along with meals.
g. Patients using this capsule should take a multivitamin before going to sleep.
h. A possible side effect is a change in bowel habits.
i. A section of people are crediting this drug with causing pre-cancerous lesions of the colon.