FAQ's: Alli - Xenical

What are Alli and Xenical?

What type of injuries can Alli and Xenical cause?

What other side effects are associated with Alli and Xenical?

What is the FDA's position?

What are Alli and Xenical?

Alli is the only FDA approved, over-the-counter weight loss aid on the market. Xenical is the prescription strength version of Alli. Both products contain the active ingredient, orlistat. Unlike other weight loss treatments that claim to increase metabolism or suppress appetite, weight loss products containing orlistat claim to prevent the body's digestive system from absorbing dietary fat, thus reducing caloric intake and promoting weight loss.

What type of injuries can Alli and Xenical cause?

Alli and Xenical have been linked liver disease and liver failure. Liver disease is a medical term used to describe a broad category of diseases including:

• Cirrhosis
• Hepatitis
• Liver Cancer
• Gallbladder disease

Liver failure is a serious medical condition in which the liver cannot perform properly and ultimately stops functioning often resulting in death or requiring a liver transplant.

What other side effects are associated with Alli and Xenical?

Other side effects associated with Alli and Xenical include:

• Jaundice
• Abdominal Pain
• Weakness & Fatigue
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Light-colored stools
• Brown or dark urine
• Itching

What is the FDA's position?

In August 2009, the FDA announced an investigation into 32 reports of serious liver injury, including 6 cases of liver failure, in patients using orlistat. The FDA urged consumers to consult their health care professional if they are experiencing symptoms possibly associated with the use of orlistat and development of liver injury, particularly weakness or fatigue, fever, jaundice or brown urine. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, light-colored stools, itching, or loss of appetite.

Read more about Alli and Xenical Injuries and Liver Damage.