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Diet Safety: Alli is NOT your ally!

By Megan Roth

It lines the shelves of pharmacies, it’s painted on the front of the CVS store circular, even Target keeps a steady supply of it in stock – it’s Alli, the only FDA-approved over-the-counter weight loss product.

I said it yesterday and I’ll say it again: diet pills can be downright dangerous. The fact that the FDA approved the drug doesn’t mean it’s used without consequence. In truth, Alli has more implications than one would think (and than the company likes to let on).

The drug hit shelves in June 2007 and it took the market by storm. Granted, it is FDA-approved; however, that doesn’t necessarily make it safe.

It’s public knowledge that the drug is a reduced dosage of the prescription weight loss aid Orlistat; however, some consumers seem to think the reduced dosage aspect is unnecessary and intentionally up consumption of the drug with hopes of increasing the results.

Not such a great idea; though the drug has undergone vigorous testing (and is backed by GlaxoSmithkline – the pharmaceutical powerhouse) it’s no different from any other pharmaceutical and may have side effects which vary by person.

One commonly recorded side effect of Alli? It suppresses the body’s ability to absorb fatty acids (a process which is essential for good health). This may inhibit the body’s ability to absorb other key nutrients and may also cause a loss of bowel control, gas, diarrhea and abdominal pain. These effects generally occur within the first couple of weeks and should lessen shortly thereafter.

But regardless, sounds similar to a laxative if you ask me. Would your doctor recommend extended use of laxatives in order to promote weight loss? Probably not. So what makes us think Alli is safe? Oh, that’s right – it’s FDA approved.

Many consumers see the FDA approval sticker and use this as a means of justifying use of the drug. However, they often overlook the fact that diet pills alone won’t do the trick. In addition to using the drug properly, consumers also need to alter their diet and exercise regime in order to lose weight.

But what’s more, an altered diet (specifically one low in fat) will also reduce that individual’s likelihood of developing oily stools and experiencing diarrhea. A few other alterations to make if you’re taking Alli?

Reduce overall caloric intake, take a multivitamin every day, take Alli only when after consuming a meal containing fat and monitor your blood sugar levels (especially if you’re diabetic, as Alli may affect blood sugar).

Granted the many cases of negative experiences are just one side of the story; there are also numerous success stories resulting from the use of Alli.

The drug is pricey and can be effective; however, so can a healthy diet and active lifestyle. In the end, it’s up to the individual to determine what’s best for him/her. I won’t lecture as I’ve already said my piece on the OTC med, but do some research and know what you’re getting into before you order your Alli starter kit…

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Megan Roth

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on January 02, 2009 (boomark / email).