Alli

What is it?

Composition

Alli contains the active ingredient orlistat in a dosage of 60 mg. This substance is a key element that helps block the absorption of fats from food, reducing the total amount of calories consumed. In addition to the active ingredient, the drug contains excipients that improve the digestibility and stability of the product.

• Microcrystalline cellulose - used as a stabilizer and filler, ensuring uniform distribution of the active substance.
• Gelatin - forms the capsule shell, facilitating the intake of the drug and protecting the active ingredients from external factors.
• Talc - added to prevent sticking and improve the flowability of the powder inside the capsule.
• Titanium dioxide and indigo carmine - used as dyes to give the capsules a characteristic appearance.

How to use?

Using Alli requires following certain rules to achieve the best results and minimize possible side effects. The drug is usually taken three times a day, during main meals that contain fat. This allows orlistat to act directly on dietary fats, reducing their absorption by the body.

1. Take one Alli capsule (60 mg) during a meal or within an hour after a meal containing fat. If your meal does not contain fat, you can skip a dose.
2. Try to maintain a balanced, low-calorie diet in which about 30% of calories come from fat. This will increase the effectiveness of the drug and reduce the risk of side effects.
3. Do not exceed the recommended dose of three capsules per day. Taking more than this amount does not increase the rate of weight loss and may cause adverse reactions from the gastrointestinal tract.

How does it work?

Alli works by blocking the activity of the enzyme lipase, which is involved in breaking down fats in the gastrointestinal tract. Lipase converts fats from food into simpler compounds that can then be absorbed by the body. When Alli blocks this enzyme, approximately 25% of the fats in food remain undigested and are not absorbed. They are eliminated from the body naturally through the intestines.

This mechanism of action helps reduce the number of calories entering the body, which contributes to more effective weight loss. It is important to note that Alli only works on fats in food and does not affect carbohydrates or proteins. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to control the fats in food and avoid excess accumulation of calories without upsetting the balance of other nutrients.

The effect of Alli is most pronounced when combined with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise. This approach allows you to achieve sustainable weight loss, maintain the results achieved and reduce the risk of returning extra pounds.

Indications

Alli is intended for adults who want to lose weight, particularly if they are overweight or obese. Alli is recommended as an adjunct to a low-fat, low-calorie diet. The primary indication for use of the drug is weight control and loss in people with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher.

• Overweight or obese, when the BMI exceeds 25 units.
• The need to lose weight to improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing concomitant diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Use as part of a comprehensive weight loss program that includes diet and physical activity.
• Prevention of weight regain after achieving the target body weight.

Contraindications

Alli is contraindicated in a number of cases where its use may be unsafe or inappropriate for health. It is important to consult a doctor before starting to take the drug to exclude contraindications and avoid possible complications.

• Allergy or hypersensitivity to orlistat or any other component of the drug.
• Chronic bowel diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, malabsorption (impaired absorption of nutrients) or chronic pancreatitis.
• Cholestasis - a violation of the outflow of bile from the liver.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since the safety of the drug for these groups of patients has not been established.
• Concomitant use of drugs for the treatment of diseases associated with impaired blood clotting, such as warfarin.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Alli can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects are related to the drugs effects on the gastrointestinal tract. These effects are usually caused by not following a low-calorie, low-fat diet and usually go away as the body adjusts to the drug.

• Oily discharge from the intestines is one of the most common side effects that occurs when there is excess fat in the diet.
• Frequent or sudden urge to defecate, which can be inconvenient in everyday life.
• Gas with the release of greasy spots, especially when eating high-fat foods.
• Abdominal discomfort, such as cramping or discomfort.
• Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or itching may occur.

These side effects can usually be reduced by strictly following the recommended diet and limiting fat intake. In case of severe or persistent side effects, it is necessary to consult a doctor.