Alli (orlistat) Weight Loss Drug Available OTC

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved orlistat capsules, branded as alli, as an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for overweight adults in February, 2007. The drug had previously been approved in 1999 as a prescription weight loss aid, whose brand name is Xenical). The OTC preparation will have a lower dosage than prescription Xenical and is produced and sold by GlaxoSmithKline under the name of Alli.

Unlike appetite suppressants, orlistat (Xenical) works as a weight loss aid by acting upon the function of the gastrointestinal tract. The drug binds to an enzyme known as gastrointestinal lipase and inhibits the action of this enzyme, which plays a role in breaking down fats for absorption in the GI tract. As a result, up to 30% of ingested fat is not absorbed by the body.

Orlistat alli is recommended only for people 18 years of age and over in combination with a diet and exercise regimen. People who have difficulties with the absorption of food or who are not overweight should not take orlistat. Overweight is defined by the U.S. National Institutes of Health as having a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater.

Orlistat alli can be taken up to three times a day, with each fat-containing meal. The drug may be taken during the meal or up to one hour after the meal. If the meal is missed or is very low in fat content, the medications should not be taken. Because of its interference with absorption of fat from the GI tract, the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) may also be affected in people taking orlistat. It is recommended that those taking orlistat also take a daily multivitamin supplement containing these vitamins

What is Alli?

Alli (pronounced ally) is the first over-the-counter, FDA-approved weight loss pill. The 60-mg capsules are available as a 60-count starter pack, a 90-count starter pack, and a 120-count refill.

Alli is comprised of a half-dose of the prescription-only weight loss medication known as Xenical. The active ingredient in both pills is Orlistat.

At this time, Alli is considered safe for long-term use.

How do I Get Alli?

Alli is available at mass-market retailers, drugstores, and some online retailers. The 90-count starter pack costs around $60.The starter pack includes reference guides about the product, following a healthy diet, and exercise. Information about gaining access to online resources is also provided.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase the product.

What does Alli Do?

Alli is not an appetite suppresant. The purpose of Alli is to prevent your body from absorbing some of the fat you eat.

According to the official product Web site, myalli.com, the active ingredient (Orlistat) attaches to natural enzymes found in your body’s digestive system.

• The prospect of an anti-obesity drug, alli, that can be purchased over-the-counter is exciting news for millions of overweight Americans and Europeans. A reduced strength formulation of weight-loss drug Xenical (orlistat), alli is the only FDA-endorsed weight-loss drug available without a prescription.

• Xenical has a good safety record, and has shown itself to be moderately effective. But when alli is taken with a meal containing too much fat, side-effects can include “stools that may be hard to control.”

• The alli Report, updated daily, will provide the latest news and reviews related to alli (pronounced Al-eye), and the alli Forum provides a place for readers to ask questions — and share experiences — with diet pill alli
• For more information just go for a free consultation