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What is this Drug
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. Combi
ned with a low-calorie diet, it is used to promote weight loss and discourage the return of unwanted pounds.
The drug 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.
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Diet Program
To help you get started on reducing the fat in your diet to about 30%, read the labels on all the foods you buy. While you are taking Xenical, you should avoid foods that have more than 30% fat. When
eating meat, poultry (chicken) or fish, eat only 2 or 3 ounces (about the size of a deck of cards). Choose lean cuts of meat and remove the skin from poultry. Fill up your meal plate with more grains,
fruits, and vegetables. Replace whole-milk products with nonfat or 1% milk and reduced- or low-fat dairy items. Cook with less fat. Use vegetable oil spray when cooking. Salad dressings; many baked i
tems; and prepackaged, processed, and fast foods are usually high in fat. Use the low- or non-fat versions of these foods and/or cut back on serving sizes.
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Overdosage
There is no report for massive overdose of Xenical. Although the drug seems relatively harmless, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical
attention.
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Cautions
It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.
For patients with diabetes:
Weight loss may result in an improvement in your condition, and your doctor may need to change your dose of oral diabetes medicine or insulin.
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Side Effects of This Medicine
More common side effects may include:
- Abdominal discomfort or pain, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, diarrhea, dizziness, earache, fatigue, fatty or oily stools, fecal urgency or incontinence, fl
u, gas with fecal discharge, gum problems, headache, increased defecation, menstrual problems, muscle pain, nausea, oily discharge, rectal discomfort or pain, respiratory tract infections, skin rash,
sleep problems, tooth problems, urinary tract infections, vaginal inflammation, vomiting
Less common side effects may include:
- Dry skin, ear/nose/throat problems, joint disorders
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br> Side effects that usually occur after the first year of treatment with Xenical include: depression, leg pain, swollen feet, and tendonitis.
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Other medical problems
DietˇXWhen using Xenical, your diet should contain no more than 30% of calories as fat. More fat in your diet will increase the side effects of this medicine. Your diet should be nutritionally balance
, and your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein should be distributed over three main meals.
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