Xenical Uses

Xenical uses are focused on helping people to not only lose weight, but also keep the weight off. It works by inhibiting the action of enzymes in the digestive tract that break down fat molecules. As a result, the amount of fat that the body absorbs is reduced. Xenical can be used in children as young as 12. At this time, there are no off-label Xenical uses.

 

Xenical Uses: An Overview

Xenical® (orlistat) is a prescription medication used as an aid in weight loss. When combined with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet, the medication promotes gradual and modest weight loss.
 
Xenical is approved for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater or a BMI of 27 or greater if other risk factors are present, such as:
 
(Click BMI Calculator to find your BMI.)
 
Xenical is approved to help people lose weight and maintain that weight loss. It is also approved to help people who have already lost weight keep from regaining it.
 

How Does Xenical Work?

Xenical 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. Xenical binds to lipases and inhibits their activity, helping to decrease fat absorption. The drug does not have any effect on carbohydrates or protein.
 

Xenical Uses in Children

Xenical is approved for use in overweight children age 12 years and older. Talk to your child's healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children. Xenical can decrease the absorption of certain vitamins from the diet, which may be of greater concern in growing children.
 
(Xenical Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;