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22 years
An 18 year-old girl I know takes Xenical and she's not obese. Is it healthy? And is it dangerous if she takes those pills frequently? (not more than 1 pill per day)
Sep 27, 2014

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
Xenical (orlistat) blocks the activity of enzymes secreted by the stomach and pancreas that break down triglycerides. As such, the intestines will not be able to absorb those compounds which will be thrown out in stools. The downside of the process is altered absorption of certain vitamins (A, D, E, K) which require the presence of fats to get taken up from the gut into the bloodstream. So it is important to make up for possible deficiency in these vitamins.
Taken in the right dose and in the absence of any medical condition that is a contraindication to orlistat, no major complications should be a source of worry. What could be concerning thought is the fact that the person you have mentioned is not obese and still is trying to lose weight without a proper diet. My advice is that she gets a proper evaluation in a dietitian's office, to document the proper lean weight, and plan a healthy diet regimen and exercise as needed.
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