Alli Update
Remember my post regarding Alli (otherwise known as Xenical or Orlistat) and its potential health risks? It seems that the jig is up, and the American Food and Drug Administration are currently investigating the weight loss supplement due to reported adverse affects. To date there have been 32 reports of serious liver injuries in persons taking the over the counter weight loss supplement. Out of those reports, 6 persons experienced lever failure, and 27 of them required hospitalization.
Despite the investigation, sales are brisk. Alli is approved for sale in over 100 countries, and it is reported that in countries such as the U.K., it is often being sold to women that are not overweight enough to require it. However, according to a weight loss specialist physician who works out of the Mayo Clinic, Alli does not make a huge difference in weight loss. Despite the escalating sales, Dr. Hensrud claims that most of the studies that support accelerated weight loss through the use of the drug utilized the prescription strength, rather than the over the counter version. Further, he estimates that using Alli while following a calorie reduced diet and taking physical exercise (both of which are part of the Alli program), will result in an extra loss of only 3 pounds! This is again based on the prescription strength of the drug, not on the over the counter version!
Here are some signs to watch for that may indicate liver complications and definitely indicate a trip to see your physician. Weakness, fever, fatigue, yellowing of the whites of your eyes and skin and dark brown urine are the most serious. Other indicators include clay or light colored stools, nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite and itching. The liver is a wonderful organ, constantly repairing itself. However, if signs of liver damage become apparent, this indicates that over 80% of the organ is damaged.
If you look back on my previous post, the side effects from Alli are listed, and they really are not pretty. With the emerging information regarding potential liver damage, I strongly urge all of you to avoid using this drug. Despite the links to liver damage, the drug remains on sale until the investigation is completed, and recommendations are made. Think about your health in the long run, and strive for sensible weight loss, your liver will thank you for it.
