What is Xenical used for?

Xenical is used to help people that are overweight who fit certain requirements lose weight and maintain weight loss. Xenical works in your intestines by blocking some of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This undigested fat is removed during your bowel movements. The effects of Xenical will continue only as long as you are taking it.

There are some people that should not take Xenical?

You cannot take Xenical if you:

• have problems absorbing food
• have gallbladder problems
• are pregnant, or breast-feeding a child
• People with certain kidney problems may not be able to take Xenical.

General Precautions to take when on Xenical:

• Your daily intake of fat should be evenly divided over 3 main meals.
• Xenical can decrease the absorption some fat-soluble vitamins and beta-carotene. Therefore when being treated with Xenical, take a multivitamin supplement that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your multivitamin once a day at least 2 hours before or after taking Xenical, such as bedtime.
• tell your doctor what medications you are taking, including those that you take without a prescription. If you are taking cyclosporine you may have to be monitored more closely.
• If you are diabetic, Xenical may affect your blood sugar control. See your doctor regularly for monitoring and treatment adjustments.

There are some things that you should tell your doctor when taking this medication:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or if you are currently breast feeding.

What side effects can you expect when taking Xenical? (This is only a partial list of side effects reported with Xenical. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of possible side effects and drug interactions..)

• Oily spotting
• Gas with discharge
• Urgent need to have a bowel movement
• Oily or fatty stools
• Oily discharge
• Increased number of bowel movements
• Inability to control bowel movements

For more detailed information about Xenical, ask your doctor.