Alli, the only FDA approved over-the-counter weight loss
product, is being marketed as a safe and effective weight-loss drug. Alli is
for weight loss in overweight adults, 18 years of age and older.
When used in conjunction with a low-fat diet and regular
exercise, Alli claims to increase weight loss results by 50% when compared to
dieting alone. For example, if a person could lose 5 pounds with dieting,
they would lose an additional 2-3 pounds with dieting and Alli. According to
the manufacturer, most people in their studies lost 5-10 pounds over a 6-month
period.
Alli is not an appetite suppressant. One-half the
strength of the prescription drug Xenical (used to treat obesity) and marketed
under a different name, Alli works in the digestive system by blocking the
absorption of fat, thus decreasing the number of calories absorbed. Due to
this fat blocking ability, persons taking this product may experience side
effects such as some gas with oily spotting, loose oily stools, or more
frequent stools that may be hard to control.
Alli can be taken up to 3 times a day with meals. To
decrease the side effects associated with this product, the manufacturer
recommends consuming no more than 15 grams of fat with each meal.
Alli’s fat blocking ability may also contribute to the
decreased absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Deficiencies
in these nutrients are associated with increased risk of infections, impaired
night vision, muscle weakness, anemia, weak bones, and bruising. Taking a
multi-vitamin at a time other than when Alli is being taken, preferably at
bedtime, may help prevent deficiencies of the fat-soluble vitamins.
People who are not overweight, have had an organ
transplant, or have problems absorbing food should not take Alli. Also,
anyone being treated for thyroid disease or diabetes or taking blood thinners
should consult their health care provider before taking Alli.
If a person is willing to work hard to gradually lose
weight, commit to following a low-fat, reduced-calorie diet, commit to eating
smaller portion sizes, and make time to be physically active, Alli claims that
it can then help them be successful at losing weight. However, if a person is
willing to do those things, it is highly possible that they can successfully
lose weight without Alli and its side effects.
