Last week the FDA announced that is was reviewing new safety information regarding reports of liver-related adverse events in patients taking the weight loss formula, orlistat. Orlistat is marketed in the United States as a prescription product, Xenical, and as the over-the-counter (OTC) product, Alli.
32 reports of serious liver injury, including 6 cases of liver failure, in patients using orlistat were submitted to FDAs Adverse Event Reporting System. The most commonly reported adverse events described in the 32 reports of serious liver injury were jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), weakness, and abdominal pain. Hospitalization was reported in 27 of the 32 cases.
But what’s most disturbing is the FDA announcement is that they’re not recommending consumers stop taking the product.
I understand that women are looking for help with their weight loss plans, especially women over 40. During this time weight often begins to creep up as estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and female hormones become unbalanced.
But the liver issue, coupled with the unpleasant side effects of Alli, make it clear that this is no friendly weight loss remedy. Just go to the Alli web site and you can read all about it:
You may get:
- gas with oily spotting
- loose stools
- more frequent stools that may be hard to control
So, you may lose some weight, but you have to stick close to home, just in case you experience an “episode”.
Dr. Lark advocates a far safer approach, with with a natural weight loss plan that incorporates a healthy diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Click here to read about Dr. Lark’s latest natural weight loss recommendations.