Alli Uses

Alli uses are concerned with helping people lose weight by binding to enzymes that break down fat molecules. The drug is designed to be used along with a low-calorie, reduced-fat diet. Alli is the first non-prescription weight loss medicine that has been approved by the FDA. It is used for adults only and is not approved for children under the age of 18.

 

Alli Uses: An Overview

Alli™ (orlistat) is an over-the-counter (non-prescription) medication used to aid in weight loss. It is currently the only non-prescription weight loss drug that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Alli is actually a non-prescription version of Xenical®, a prescription weight loss medication that has been available for several years.
 
Alli is approved for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater (see BMI Calculator to find your BMI). It is intended to be used along with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. Not only will such a diet help you lose more weight, it will also help prevent many Alli side effects, particularly the side effects that affect the digestive system. Each Alli starter pack comes with instructions and a code that allows you to access myalliplan, an online tool designed to help you in your weight loss efforts. This tool includes many useful tips, recipes, and other features, and can even tailor a specific weight loss plan for you based on a brief survey that you take.
 

How Does Alli Work?

Alli works by decreasing the absorption of fat from your diet. The stomach and intestine have enzymes, called lipases, that break down fat into smaller molecules which are then absorbed from your digestive tract. Alli binds to lipases and inhibits their activity, helping to decrease fat absorption. Alli does not have any effect on carbohydrates or protein.
 
(Alli Uses Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;