Xenical is a prescription weight loss medication that is designed to help people lose weight in a safe and effective way. It has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1999 and is available only with a doctor’s prescription. In this article, we will explore what Xenical is, how it works, its benefits and drawbacks, and whether it is suitable for you.
What is Xenical?
Xenical is the brand name of the weight loss medication called Orlistat. It is a lipase inhibitor that works by blocking the absorption of fat in the body. This means that when you take Xenical, your body cannot absorb some of the fat that you eat, which reduces the number of calories you consume and helps you lose weight. Xenical is not an appetite suppressant, and it does not affect your brain or central nervous system.
How Does Xenical Work?
Xenical works by blocking the action of an enzyme called lipase. Lipase is responsible for breaking down fats in your digestive system. When you eat food that contains fat, lipase breaks it down into smaller parts so that your body can absorb it. However, when you take Xenical, it blocks the action of lipase, which means that some of the fat in your food passes through your body undigested. This fat is then eliminated from your body in your stool.
Benefits of Xenical
Xenical can be an effective weight loss medication for people who are obese or overweight. Here are some of the benefits of Xenical:
1.Effective weight loss:
Clinical studies have shown that Xenical can help people lose more weight than diet and exercise alone.
2.Improved health markers:
Xenical has been shown to improve several health markers, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
3.Long-term use:
Studies have shown that Xenical can be effective for long-term weight loss when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.
Drawbacks of Xenical
While Xenical can be an effective weight loss medication, it does come with some potential drawbacks. Here are some of the drawbacks of Xenical:
1.Gastrointestinal side effects:
Because Xenical blocks the absorption of fat in the body, some of that fat is eliminated in your stool. This can lead to gastrointestinal side effects such as oily spotting, gas, and diarrhea.
2.Nutrient deficiencies:
Because Xenical blocks the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies if not taken properly.
3.Cost:
Xenical can be expensive, and it is not always covered by insurance.
Is Xenical Suitable for You?
Xenical may be suitable for people who are obese or overweight and have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Xenical to determine if it is right for you. Your doctor will take into account several factors, such as your medical history, current medications you are taking, and any underlying health conditions you may have.
How to Take Xenical
Xenical is taken orally with a meal that contains fat. The recommended dose is one 120mg capsule three times a day. It should be taken within one hour after eating or during the meal. If you skip a meal or eat a meal that does not contain fat, you can skip the dose of Xenical that accompanies that meal. Xenical should be taken in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise.
Xenical Side Effects
Like all medications, Xenical can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include gastrointestinal side effects such as oily spotting, gas, and diarrhea. These side effects usually occur within the first few weeks of starting Xenical and tend to subside over time. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, you should talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
Xenical is a prescription weight loss medication that can be effective for people who are struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It works by blocking the absorption of fat in the body, which reduces calorie intake and can lead to weight loss. While Xenical can be effective, it does come with some potential drawbacks, such as gastrointestinal side effects and the potential for nutrient deficiencies. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Xenical to determine if it is right for you. Additionally, Xenical should be taken in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise for optimal weight loss results.
Related topics:
