Xenical (orlistat) has been approved for weight loss in people that have trouble getting rid of extra pounds that create a higher risk for developing a number of dangerous health conditions. This drug is used as a part of individualized low-calorie diet and exercise program and in many cases is prescribed for people with certain other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or high cholesterol. Follow the instructions provided by your health care provider and take the medicine accordingly. It is usually taken three times a day with some food that contains fat. In case there is no fat in the meal you consume you can skip your dosage of Xenical and carry on with the treatment. If you are allergic to this drug or any other medicines you may not be able to take Xenical as otherwise a serious reaction is possible. If you are taking some drug intended for the suppression of the immune system (cyclosporine) you need to allow at least two hours to pass before you can safely take Xenical, and vice versa. Talk to your doctor about combining Xenical with any other medications you may be on.

In some very rare cases this medicine has been reported to cause liver injury and liver failure although it is not clear whether these effects had to do with the person simply taking Xenical or can be attributed to some other factors. In case of certain medical conditions, such as pancreatitis, kidney stones, gallbladder or thyroid disease, or eating disorder, additional tests may be required for you to safely take this medication. Such health conditions as malabsorption syndrome and cholestasis are contraindications for taking Xenical. In case you had these diseases you will not be able to take Xenical. When you first start taking Xenical your body may need some time to adjust to the dosage prescribed, as a result of which you may experience such side effects as difficulty controlling bowel movements, stomach pain, gas with oily spotting, headache, loose stools, oily or fatty stools, and anxiety.