Xenical Over the Counter? The FDA Just Said Yes

by Catherine Ipcizade | More from this Blogger

08 Feb 2007 07:20 AM

This is breaking news for diet-conscious individuals around the country. The FDA has just approved Orlistat, currently sold under the name Xenical, to be sold over the counter.

Xenical is a fat-blocker. Essentially, what is does is to reduce the amount of fat absorption in your body. Approximately ¼ of the fat you consume (which equates to 100-250 calories) is absorbed by the drug, aiding in weight loss. The fat is expelled in loose stools. In order for this to happen, users take the recommended dosage with meals.

People taking Xenical are advised to follow a low-fat eating plan and to get plenty of exercise. Unlike the prescription Xenical, the new over the counter version will be available at half-strength. Users will still take the drug with meals, and will hopefully lose more weight than with diet and exercise alone.

According to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), the most common side effect of the drug is a change in bowel habits. Specifically, when an individual taking the drug overeats, he or she is prone to diarrhea. However, sticking to a low-calorie, low-fat eating plan will drastically reduce this occurrence.

Information wasn't provided yet as to when Xenical will be available over the counter, but GlaxoSmithKline estimates a retail cost for consumers of approximately $12 to $25 per week for the drug. Though this may seem expensive initially, if the drug helps people to lose weight, they'll be saving hundreds if not thousands of dollars in the long run. Obesity can lead to diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, costing consumers an enormous amount of money over time.

For overweight individuals, this may be the answer they've been seeking. Be advised though, as with all weight loss products, there is no miracle cure to obesity. A proper diet, exercise, and wise choices are still the most effective tool in managing your weight and your health.

Learn more about Catherine Ipcizade

Cathy Ipcizade is 30 years old and currently resides in Southern California. Prior to coming to California she grew up in Arizona.

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Catherine Ipcizade (5617) 08 Feb 2007 10:17 AM

PS The over the counter drug will be called ALLI and will be available this summer sometime.