Information About The New Over-The-Counter Weight Loss Drug Alli

What is Alli and how does it work?

Alli is the over the counter version of Orlistat (Xenical), a fat blocking drug. It is designed for people who are not in a healthy weight range and their health would benefit from weight loss. Alli reduces the absorption of dietary fats in the small intestine by approximately 30%. This unabsorbed fat is then excreted in the stool.

Do I have to follow a special diet?

If you've seen the commercials or ads, you will notice they promote Alli as one component of a weight loss plan or program. That program includes a reduced calorie, moderately low fat diet and exercise. Your diet should not contain more than about 30% of calories from fat and should also not be too low fat.

The company recommends that you partner with a Registered Dietitian to start your weight loss plan. This drug works only if you work - and having support is an important component of any weight management plan.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

If you follow the diet, exercise and medication recommendations you may lose up to 50% more weight than you would with diet and exercise alone. In the company's literature, they report an average 6 month weight loss of 6-10 pounds in people who follow the program.

Are there side effects?

Side effects may include gas with oily discharge, inability to control bowel movements, oily or fatty stools and oily spotting. These problems will be exacerbated with a high fat meal.

In addition, some vitamins and minerals may not be absorbed as well, so taking a multivitamin/mineral supplement is recommended as part of the plan.