API Orlistat

Orlistat More Info

1. General overview

Orlistat is a pharmaceutical drug. Its chemical name is (S) - 2 - formylamino - 4 - methyl - pentanoic acid (S) - 1 - [[(2S, 3S) - 3 - hexyl - 4 - oxo - 2 - oxetanyl] methyl] - dodecyl ester.

It is a lipase inhibitor. The main function of lipase in the body is to break down triglycerides in the diet so that they can be absorbed by the intestine. Orlistat works by binding to gastric and pancreatic lipases in the lumen of the stomach and small intestine. This binding inhibits the activity of these lipases, preventing the breakdown of triglycerides into absorbable free fatty acids and monoglycerides. As a result, a significant portion of dietary fat passes through the digestive tract undigested and is excreted in the feces.

2. Medical uses

Weight loss: Orlistat is primarily used as a weight - loss aid. It is often prescribed for individuals who are obese or overweight and have other risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. By reducing the absorption of dietary fat, it can help patients achieve a negative energy balance and thus lose weight. For example, in a typical weight - loss program, when combined with a reduced - calorie diet and increased physical activity, Orlistat can enhance the weight - loss effect.

Improvement of metabolic syndrome components: It can also have a positive impact on some of the factors associated with metabolic syndrome. For instance, it may lead to a reduction in blood lipid levels, including triglycerides and LDL - cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol), and can potentially improve blood glucose control in some patients with diabetes or prediabetes.

3. Dosage and administration

Orlistat is usually taken orally, typically three times a day with meals that contain fat. The dosage may vary depending on the specific formulation and the patient's condition. For example, the commonly used over - the - counter dose is 60 mg per capsule, and for prescription - only versions, the dose may be 120 mg per capsule.

It's important that patients take the medication as directed. If a meal is missed or contains no fat, the dose can usually be skipped because the drug's mechanism of action is related to the presence of dietary fat.

4. Side effects

Gastrointestinal side effects: The most common side effects are related to the gastrointestinal tract. These include oily spotting, flatulence, fecal urgency, fatty or oily stools, and increased bowel movements. These symptoms occur because of the undigested fat passing through the intestines. For example, oily spotting can be an embarrassing side effect for patients, as it may cause stains on clothing.

Less common side effects: There are also less common side effects such as headache, menstrual disorders, and upper respiratory tract infections. In rare cases, more serious side effects like liver injury have been reported, although this is not very common.

5. Precautions and contraindications

Chronic malabsorption syndrome: Orlistat is contraindicated in patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome, such as those with conditions like cystic fibrosis - related pancreatic insufficiency. Because these patients already have problems with nutrient absorption, further inhibiting fat absorption can exacerbate their nutritional deficiencies.

Use in pregnancy and lactation: It is not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation. There is limited data on its safety in these situations, and the potential risks to the fetus or the nursing infant from reduced fat absorption and possible side effects need to be considered.