Adverse Effects Of The Alli Diet

Alli, a common brand name for the drug orlistat, is available in an over-the-counter strength and a prescription strength. As is the case with most medications, Alli has benefits and adverse effects. While it can help you lose weight, it can also cause damage to a person if taken incorrectly. Because of this, it is important to consider the benefits and adverse effects prior to taking these diet pills.

Gastrointestinal Effects

Alli works to keep the body from absorbing fat from foods ingested. While this will work to shed pounds, you can expect to make frequent trips to the bathroom on this product, especially if you eat a meal with a high fat content (over 15 grams). Loose stools, flatulence and diarrhea are some of the other gastrointestinal effects of this medication. Conversely, eHealthme.com reports that over 12 percent of reports of adverse reactions include constipation as a side effect.

Drug Interactions

People who are taking certain medications should avoid taking Alli. Drugs.com reports that blood thinners, cyclosporine and digoxin should only be used with Alli under a doctor's supervision. In the case of blood thinners, Alli affects the absorption rate of Coumadin and may lead to the Coumadin being ineffective.

Pain and Flulike Symptoms

Abdominal pain, back pain and pain in the extremities are all adverse reactions from Alli. These are sometimes discovered in conjunction with cold or flulike symptoms. Sometimes, these can be eliminated with a minor dosage change, which can be done by your doctor---even if you are taking an over-the-counter Alli product.

Mental Changes

Alli may cause some people to have anxiety attacks. This is most common in women. Sometimes, this mental change shows up as an increased stress level. Reducing the dosage or stopping the medication after weaning yourself off it over a three-day period will stop these symptoms. In some cases, you may feel irritable for a week after your last pill.

Menstrual Changes

A change in menstruation is one of the less common adverse effects of Alli. In some women, vaginitis and urinary tract infections are also common. Additionally, some women have reported oily discharge and/or spotting while on Alli. These symptoms are all caused by Alli's effect on absorption of nutrients.

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