What are the efficacy, function, and side effects of Orlistat capsules?

Generally, the efficacy and functions of orlistat capsules include inhibiting fat absorption, controlling body weight, lowering blood lipids, assisting in blood sugar reduction, and maintaining stable body weight. Side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, malnutrition, abnormal liver or kidney function, allergic reactions, and menstrual disorders. It is recommended to use under medical supervision. Detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Efficacy and Functions of Orlistat Capsules

1. Inhibition of Fat Absorption

Orlistat capsules inhibit the activity of gastrointestinal lipase, thereby preventing the breakdown and absorption of part of dietary fat, reducing caloric intake.

2. Weight Control

By inhibiting fat absorption, orlistat capsules effectively control body weight and reduce body fat, including abdominal fat. They are suitable for long-term treatment of obesity or overweight individuals.

3. Lowering Blood Lipids

While reducing fat absorption, orlistat capsules also lower blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, helping prevent atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

4. Assisting Blood Sugar Reduction

Through weight reduction and improved fat metabolism, orlistat capsules help enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels, offering a certain positive effect in the prevention and adjunctive treatment of type 2 diabetes.

5. Appetite Regulation

While reducing fat absorption, orlistat capsules may regulate appetite by influencing gastrointestinal hormone secretion. For example, unabsorbed fat in the intestines may stimulate intestinal endocrine cells to secrete hormones such as peptide YY. These hormones act on the appetite-regulating centers in the brain, inducing a feeling of satiety and reducing food intake.

II. Side Effects of Orlistat Capsules

1. Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Orlistat capsules reduce fat absorption, and when unabsorbed fat is excreted in the feces, it may affect stool consistency and normal intestinal motility, leading to increased bowel movements and changes in stool characteristics. Symptoms may include oily spotting, increased flatulence, urgency of defecation, and fatty stools.

2. Malnutrition

Long-term use of orlistat capsules may affect the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients such as beta-carotene, leading to vitamin deficiency symptoms. For example, vitamin A deficiency may cause vision problems and dry skin.

3. Abnormal Liver or Kidney Function

In rare cases, orlistat capsules may affect liver or kidney function, leading to elevated liver enzymes, abnormal liver function, or changes in kidney function indicators. Symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, and darkened urine, although such cases are relatively uncommon.

4. Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, or hives after use. Severe cases may involve angioedema symptoms such as facial swelling and difficulty breathing, which represent immune responses to the drug.

5. Menstrual Disorders

In female patients, orlistat capsules may affect hormone levels in the body, leading to menstrual cycle irregularities such as delayed menstruation, reduced or increased menstrual flow, with manifestations varying among individuals.

During the use of orlistat capsules, it is recommended to appropriately supplement fat-soluble vitamins under a doctor's guidance. Vitamin supplements can be taken two hours after taking orlistat capsules or before bedtime. At the same time, it is important to maintain a balanced and varied diet. Even during weight loss, sufficient protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals should be consumed to maintain normal physiological functions of the body.