Xenical and Pregnancy

Based on the results of animal studies on Xenical and pregnancy, the drug is likely safe for use by pregnant women. When given in high doses to rats and rabbits, Xenical did not cause any problems. However, animals and humans can respond to medications differently, so if you are taking Xenical and pregnancy occurs, talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks in your particular situation.

 

Xenical and Pregnancy: An Overview

Xenical® (orlistat) is a prescription weight loss aid that is likely safe for use during pregnancy. When given to pregnant animals, the drug did not cause any problems.
 

Xenical and Pregnancy Category B

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses a category system to classify the possible risks to a fetus when a specific medicine is taken during pregnancy. Pregnancy Category B is given to medicines that have not been thoroughly studied in pregnant humans but that do not appear to cause harm to the fetus in animal studies. Pregnancy Category B is also given to medications that caused problems in animal studies but that have been shown to be safe for humans.
 
In studies, giving very high doses of Xenical to pregnant rats and rabbits did not cause any problems. However, the drug has not been studied in pregnant women, and it is important to understand that animals and humans do not always respond to medications in the same way. Also, weight loss is usually not recommended for pregnant women, and Xenical can sometimes cause vitamin deficiencies, which may be a problem for both the mother and the developing fetus.
 

Xenical and Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

If you are pregnant, it is always a good idea to ask your healthcare provider before taking any medication (including prescription products). You and your healthcare provider can consider the possible risks and benefits of using Xenical in your particular situation, as well as any other treatment alternatives.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;