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)
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.
•
Health Engage
Your Health Engage Meter
Sign up or
login to eTobb to get personalized preventive health recommendations and timely reminders.
Annual Checkup
It is recommended that all individuals see a Family Doctor for a full medical examination annually. Adults should get their blood pressure checked (US Preventive Task Force), a flu vaccine (CDC) and more each year.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings for adults at least twice annually. Some stains can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
It’s recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that every adult between the ages of 18 and 80 does an eye examination at least once every two years.
It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
Take a step forward towards a healthier lifestyle. Stay connected to doctors and stay informed on the latest health topics that matter to you. Sign up to eTobb now!
Premium Question Order Summary 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Check if your question is new We may already have an answer for you
You asked for:
Your question is::
Premium Question: Second Opinion
Get help to feel good!
Get answers to your health concerns by asking our certified physicians. Share your medical files for review in eTobb Premium.
Talk to real doctors!
Find the right doctor from our network of over 1000 verified physicians. Check out their eTobb Profiles to learn more about them.
Be proactive, Be healthy!
Your health is our number one priority. We've provided you with a Health Engage meter that tracks how many personalized health recommendations you have completed.
Feedback
premium
Ask Doctors Choose a plan to ask your question
PREMIUM
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 2000 characters
Receive expert medical advice
Get priority for doctor answers
Attach files (i.e. blood tests, X-rays...)
Choose a specialist of your choice
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Your question will not be posted publicly
$6 / Question
Basic
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 150 characters
Get educational information
Free
Edit Question
مبروك!
شكراً لإهتمامك في الإنضمام إلى إي طب! تم إضافتك بنجاح على قائمة الإنتظار. للحصول على الوصول والدخول المبكر، قم بإبلاغ عائلتك وأصدقائك. كلّما أبلغت عنّا أشخاص أكثر كلما زادت فرصك للحصول على دخول مبكّر.
