Orlistat
Xenical (orlistat) is a prescription weight management medication that helps adults with obesity or overweight conditions lose weight and maintain weight loss. It works in the digestive system to block absorption of about one-quarter of dietary fat, which is then eliminated from the body. This medication is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program.
Xenical is a prescription weight loss medication that blocks fat absorption in the intestines to help patients manage obesity.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 226918
- Generic
- Xenical
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Xenical is indicated for weight loss in obese adults (BMI ≥30) and overweight adults (BMI ≥27) with weight-related conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. It is typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone have not been sufficient for weight management.
Xenical inhibits gastrointestinal lipase enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, preventing them from breaking down dietary triglycerides into absorbable free fatty acids and monoglycerides. Unabsorbed fat (approximately 25-30% of dietary fat intake) is excreted in feces rather than absorbed.
Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as oily spotting, flatulence, and frequent bowel movements, particularly with high-fat meals. Xenical may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and should be taken with a multivitamin supplement. Patients should follow a nutritionally balanced, reduced-calorie diet with no more than 30% of calories from fat. It is contraindicated in patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy