Xenical, one of the most commonly prescribed medications, is recommended for the treatment of clinical obesity; it consists of the active ingredient orlistat. Xenical diet tablets do not work as appetite suppressants or as metabolism boosters. Instead, they act as lipase inhibitors and block the action of this enzyme that assists in the breakdown and absorption of fats in the digestive system. This prevents the digestion and subsequent absorption of about one third of dietary fats, which are later eliminated from your body through bowel movements. This does not mean, however, that you can consume as many calories as you like without putting on weight. A low calorie diet is essential for the success of Xenical slimming pills.

Xenical and dieting

This anti-obesity drug is not, however, a miracle ‘get slim quick’ pill. Xenical cannot be taken by itself; it is supposed to be a part of a holistic weight loss program that should also incorporate traditional weight loss measures which include a balanced and low calorie diet as well as behaviour modifications such as keeping your habit of binge eating in check and controlling your sweet tooth. In addition, health experts also recommend that foods rich in calories must be avoided when taking Xenical.

Xenical and other risk factors

Obesity and overweight puts you at greater risk of developing serious health conditions such as high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, breathing difficulties, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, sleep disorders as well as some kinds of cancers. Research has proven that a large number of obese people also tend to develop at least one of the above mentioned health conditions. Obesity can also be held responsible for emotional and psychological conditions such as low self esteem, depression, loneliness, poor body image as well as eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Losing even a small amount of weight with Xenical substantially lowers your risk of developing obesity related health conditions.

Xenical and diabetes

Weight loss is crucial for improving the health of individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes. Weight loss improves insulin resistance and carbohydrate tolerance, as well as reduces hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia. Xenical is only prescribed for individuals suffering from obesity. This condition is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more. Xenical is also prescribed for people with a BMI of 27 or more, in addition to suffering from other obesity-linked health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Studies have shown that weight loss with Xenical eliminates or reduces the need for drug therapy in diabetics and lowers insulin sensitivity in them, in addition to improving coronary risk.

Xenical and thyroid

It is essential to inform your doctor if you take thyroid medications or suffer from hypothyroidism – also known as low thyroid function – before taking Xenical for weight loss. Your health care provider needs to monitor your thyroid function during treatment with Xenical and adjust your dosage if required. It is also recommended that you maintain a gap of four hours between your thyroid medications and Xenical to avoid potential drug interactions.