Side Effects of orlistat: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Orlistat is a medication used for obesity treatment that inhibits the absorption of dietary fat. 9 states that although orlistat is effective for diet-induced obesity, it is expensive and has strong side effects, which is why plant-derived drugs are attracting attention as alternatives. 12 reports that orlistat is effective in reducing weight and improving lipid profiles and pregnancy rates in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

18 indicates that orlistat is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of obesity in children 12 years of age and older. 25 is a study that surveyed experiences with orlistat in young people aged 13 to 18 years, and it reported that side effects are significant, and many people independently change their lifestyle and dosage to tolerate the medication.

2 reports the potential for the shell extract of Elateriospermum tapos to have weight loss effects in a rat model of obesity. This is research toward the development of natural, orlistat-alternative obesity treatments.

Reasons for Side Effects

The main side effects of orlistat are related to the digestive system. 21 suggests the possibility of reducing the digestive side effects of orlistat by using natural fibers (psyllium) together.

Orlistat inhibits the breakdown of fat in the digestive tract, leading to maldigestion. This can cause side effects such as oily stools, oily spotting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. 6 lists calcium and flaxseed fibers as components that may reduce these side effects when used in combination.

Common Side Effects

Oily Stools

Orlistat inhibits fat digestion, so undigested fat is excreted in the stool, resulting in oily stools. Reported in 21 and 6 .

Oily Spotting

Orlistat can increase the oil content in stool, making leakage more likely. Reported in 21 .

Abdominal Pain

Orlistat can cause abdominal pain due to maldigestion. Reported in 21 .

Diarrhea

Orlistat can cause diarrhea. Reported in 21 .

Other

Besides digestive side effects, orlistat can cause side effects such as headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. Reported in 23 .

Side Effect Countermeasures

Oily Stools, Oily Spotting

Orlistat can increase the oil content in stool, leading to oily stools and oily spotting. 21 suggests the possibility of reducing these side effects by using natural fibers (psyllium) together.

Dietary recommendations include avoiding high-fat foods. Additionally, sufficient water intake is effective for increasing stool water content. 6 suggests the possibility of reducing these side effects by using calcium and flaxseed fibers together.

Abdominal Pain

If you experience severe abdominal pain, consult a doctor. Dietary recommendations include eating small amounts at a time, chewing food thoroughly, and avoiding stimulants.

Diarrhea

If you experience severe diarrhea, consult a doctor. Dietary recommendations include staying hydrated. Using intestinal regulators can also be effective.

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities

Many studies have shown that orlistat is effective for weight loss. Digestive side effects have been reported in many studies.

Differences

12 reports that orlistat is effective in reducing weight and improving lipid profiles and pregnancy rates in women with PCOS, but this is not mentioned in other studies. Also, 18 indicates that orlistat is approved by the FDA for the treatment of obesity in children 12 years of age and older, and 25 investigates experiences with orlistat in young people aged 13 to 18 years.

In this way, the results obtained will vary depending on the subject and research content of the study.

Points to Note Regarding Application to Everyday Life

Orlistat may be effective for weight loss, but you should also be aware of the risk of side effects. If you are considering taking orlistat, consult a doctor and determine the appropriate usage method for your body type. If you experience side effects, consult a doctor immediately.

Orlistat can be used in conjunction with diet therapy and exercise therapy to achieve more effective weight loss. 15 states that a multifaceted approach of lifestyle modifications, weight loss, and pharmacotherapy is necessary to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Limitations of Current Research

The long-term safety and efficacy of orlistat remain unclear. Additionally, orlistat may not be effective for all obese individuals.

Orlistat can be used in conjunction with diet therapy and exercise therapy to achieve more effective weight loss. 15 states that a multifaceted approach of lifestyle modifications, weight loss, and pharmacotherapy is necessary to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The long-term safety and efficacy of orlistat remain unclear. Additionally, orlistat may not be effective for all obese individuals.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of orlistat. It is also necessary to develop more effective treatments such as the optimal dosage and duration of administration of orlistat and combination therapy.

Conclusion

Orlistat is a drug that may be effective for weight loss, but it can cause digestive side effects. If you are considering taking orlistat, consult a doctor and determine the appropriate usage method for your body type. If you experience side effects, consult a doctor immediately.

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
23
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
2
Article Type
2
1
2
13
25
4.

Pharmacotherapy for obesity.

Author: JooJong Kil, LeeKyu Sup

Weight loss
Side effects

This article reviews currently available anti-obesity drugs, including short-term and long-term options. The article discusses the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and side effects of each drug, emphasizing the importance of considering side effects when choosing treatment for obesity.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

Approaches for the Development of Drugs for Treatment of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome.

Author: MaksimovMaksim L, SvistunovAndrey A, TarasovVadim V, ChubarevVladimir N, Ávila-RodriguezMarco, BarretoGeorge E, DralovaOlga V, AlievGjumrakch

Obesity treatment
Side effects

Obesity and metabolic syndrome are risk factors for diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal diseases. This review discusses currently available anti-obesity drugs and emerging trends in anti-obesity therapy. Central nervous system-acting drugs have a high risk of side effects, and safer drugs targeting peripheral metabolic processes are being developed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

8.

Long-term effects of weight-reducing drugs in people with hypertension.

Author: SiebenhoferAndrea, JeitlerKlaus, HorvathKarl, BergholdAndrea, PoschNicole, MeschikJutta, SemlitschThomas

Reduced blood pressure
Reduced body weight
Dry mouth
Gastrointestinal side effects

In adults with essential hypertension, orlistat and sibutramine reduced body weight to a similar degree, while phentermine/topiramate reduced body weight to a greater extent. Orlistat and phentermine/topiramate reduced blood pressure, while sibutramine increased it. Long-term trials investigating the effects of these drugs on mortality and morbidity are needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

9.

Medicinal plants and phytochemicals with anti-obesogenic potentials: A review.

Author: MopuriRamgopal, IslamMd Shahidul

Anti-Obesity Activity
Side Effects

This review summarizes the anti-obesogenic effects of various medicinal plant extracts, fractions, and bioactive compounds at in vitro, in vivo, and clinical conditions. It highlights the need for further research to develop safe and effective plant-based anti-obesity drugs.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

10.

Over-the-Counter Herbal Weight Loss Supplements in Egypt: Label Claim, Microbiological and Pharmaceutical Quality, and Safety Assessments.

Author: AhmedNada, NounouMohamed Ismail, AbouelfetouhAlaa, El-KamelAmal

Weight loss
Adulteration
Safety concerns

This study designed a comprehensive evaluation system to assess the safety, efficacy, authenticity according to label claim, and pharmaceutical quality of herbal slimming products.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Observational StudyResearch that observes and collects data on participants' behavior and outcomes in their natural state, without intervention.

Language : English

11.

[Pharmacotherapy for obesity].

Author: BruunJens Meldgaard

Weight loss
Contraindications
Side effects

This study discusses pharmacotherapy for obesity and outlines the indication for liraglutide (3 mg) or orlistat (120 mg/60 mg) when lifestyle modifications fail to achieve sufficient weight loss. It emphasizes the importance of considering patient preferences, clinical situation, side effects, contraindications, and financial considerations in treatment choice.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Danish

14.

Effects of preconception lifestyle intervention in infertile women with obesity: The FIT-PLESE randomized controlled trial.

Author: LegroRichard S, HansenKarl R, DiamondMichael P, SteinerAnne Z, CoutifarisChristos, CedarsMarcelle I, HoegerKathleen M, UsadiRebecca, JohnstoneErica B, HaisenlederDaniel J, WildRobert A, BarnhartKurt T, MersereauJennifer, TrussellJ C, KrawetzStephen A, Kris-EthertonPenny M, SarwerDavid B, SantoroNanette, EisenbergEsther, HuangHao, ZhangHeping,

Infertility treatment
Pregnancy rates

This study investigates the effectiveness of preconception intensive lifestyle intervention with acute weight loss compared to a weight neutral intervention in women with obesity and infertility. The study aims to determine if the intensive intervention is superior in achieving a healthy live birth.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Current Pharmacologic Therapy for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Author: GaneshSwaytha, RustgiVinod K

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis treatment
Side effects

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) can be improved with weight loss, exercise, and diet modification. Other therapies target insulin resistance, oxidative stress, cytoprotection, and fibrosis. Insulin sensitizers and vitamin E show promise but have side effects. No single treatment is universally effective. Further research on existing and potential drugs is needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

16.

Lifestyle intervention and anti-obesity therapies in the polycystic ovary syndrome: impact on metabolism and fertility.

Author: PanidisDimitrios, TziomalosKonstantinos, PapadakisEfstathios, VosnakisChristos, ChatzisPanagiotis, KatsikisIlias

PCOS treatment

This review summarizes the effects of lifestyle changes and anti-obesity pharmacotherapy in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Lifestyle changes, particularly in combination with anti-obesity agents, may offer benefits in managing the metabolic and endocrine abnormalities associated with PCOS.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

18.

The safety of pharmacologic treatment for pediatric obesity.

Author: ChaoAriana M, WaddenThomas A, BerkowitzRobert I

Obesity treatment
Pediatric obesity

Five medications have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity. Orlistat is the only FDA-approved medication for pediatric patients aged 12 years and above.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

20.

Obesity drug therapy.

Author: BaretićM

Reduced diabetes incidence
Weight loss
Side effects

Orlistat is the only drug currently approved in Europe for obesity treatment. It modestly reduces weight and diabetes risk, but can have side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

21.

Gastrointestinal side effects of orlistat may be prevented by concomitant prescription of natural fibers (psyllium mucilloid).

Author: CavaliereH, FlorianoI, Medeiros-NetoG

Obesity treatment
Gastrointestinal side effects

This placebo-controlled open study investigated whether the use of natural fibers (psyllium mucilloid) could prevent or ameliorate gastrointestinal (GI) side events induced by orlistat, a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor, in obese patients.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

22.

Gastrointestinal tract as a side-effect target of medications.

Author: Domagała-RodackaRenata, CiborDorota, SzczeklikKatarzyna, RodackiTomasz, MachTomasz, OwczarekDanuta

Adverse drug reaction

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a common problem in medicine. About 10% of ADRs involve the gastrointestinal system. ADRs can affect all parts of the digestive system, from the mouth to the intestines. It is important for doctors to be aware of these potential problems so they can prevent them.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

23.

Tolerability and safety of the new anti-obesity medications.

Author: HainerVojtech, Aldhoon-HainerováIrena

Cardiometabolic risk reduction
Weight loss
Heart rate elevation
Side effects
Valvulopathy

This review compares two new anti-obesity medications, phentermine/topiramate extended-release (PHEN/TPM ER) and lorcaserin. PHEN/TPM ER showed superior weight loss compared to lorcaserin, while lorcaserin had a lower incidence of adverse effects. Both drugs were well-tolerated, but serious safety concerns include elevated resting heart rate, teratogenicity, mild metabolic acidosis, and psychiatric/cognitive events for PHEN/TPM ER, and valvulopathy, cognitive impairment, psychiatric disorders, and hypoglycemia for lorcaserin.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

24.

Polyphenolic Compounds as Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitors.

Author: BuchholzTina, MelzigMatthias F

Obesity treatment

This article summarizes the potential of polyphenols, a class of natural products, as inhibitors of pancreatic lipase, an enzyme involved in lipid digestion. These compounds are being investigated for their potential in treating obesity.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

25.

Adolescent experiences of anti-obesity drugs.

Author: WhiteB, JamiesonL, CliffordS, ShieldJ P H, ChristieD, SmithF, WongI C K, VinerR M

Treats pediatric obesity
Side effects

This study explores the experiences of young people taking anti-obesity drugs (AODs). The study reveals the challenges associated with AOD use in adolescents, including side effects, adherence issues, and decision-making processes regarding drug continuation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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