Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Xenical, Alli
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor, a type of drug used to treat obesity by preventing the absorption of dietary fats. It works by inhibiting pancreatic and gastric lipases, enzymes that break down triglycerides in the intestine. This leads to approximately 30% of ingested fats being undigested and passed through the digestive system. It's typically prescribed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or those with a BMI of 27 or greater with obesity-related comorbidities like hypertension or diabetes.
For weight loss in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older who are obese or overweight and have weight-related medical problems.
Outcome:
Increased risk of bleeding
Mechanism:
Orlistat can decrease vitamin K absorption, which is essential for blood clotting.
Outcome:
Increased gastrointestinal side effects
Mechanism:
Additive effects on GI motility.
Outcome:
May slightly reduce orlistat absorption
Mechanism:
Changes in stomach pH.
Most likely new formulation: A sustained-release version of orlistat to improve tolerability and patient compliance (Year: 2026, 65% confidence).
Based on current usage trends and emerging weight-loss therapies, there is a 70% likelihood that orlistat prescriptions will decrease by 10-15% within the next five years.
Lipase Inhibitor, Anti-obesity Agent
Lipase Inhibitor