Xenical Liver Damage
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently notified members of the healthcare community that it is reviewing information that claims the weight-loss drug Xenical (Orlistat) has been linked to serious liver injuries.
While the safety of the drug is still under FDA review, the administration reported that between 1999 and October 2008, 32 people reported to have sustained severe liver damage after using the prescription weight loss drug, or the over-the-counter (OTC) product, Alli.
FDA Investigates Liver Injuries
Discussion of the safety of Xenical is still in the early stages, as the FDA is still reviewing the reported injuries and other data on related liver injuries. While the agency did issue a warning, they stated that “no definite association between liver injury and orlistat has been established at this time.”
Reports Allege Liver Damage is Linked to the Drug
According to 32 reports to the FDA, the prescription weight-loss pill Xenical (sold generically as orlistat and over-the-counter as Alli), common symptoms include:
- Weakness
- Severe abdominal pain
- Jaundice—yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes
Since the FDA’s review is still in the early stages, it has not yet required the manufacturer of the drug to strengthen the warning label or recall the weight loss pill. The FDA advises people who are currently taking the drug to continue use as directed until further notice.
What is Xenical Prescribed For?
Orlistat promotes weight loss by preventing the body from naturally digesting the fat in food. The body’s natural enzyme, lipase, breaks apart the fat in food so the body can absorb it. Orlistat works by preventing the body from absorbing about 25 percent of the fat in every meal. The unabsorbed fat is released through a person’s stool.
Xenical Dosage and Instructions
Patients are directed to take one capsule (120 mg) three times a day. The pills are supposed to be taken while eating or up to one hour after a meal. In order for the pill to work, the meal should contain 15 mg of fat; meals with no fat will not require orlistat. Persons prescribed Xenical or who purchase Alli over-the-counter are directed to eat a nutritionally balanced diet when using the weight loss capsules to ensure maximum efficiency.
Getting Help for Your Liver Injuries
Should you or a loved one develop any adverse side effect such as liver damage while taking orlistat, Xenical or Alli, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries and losses by filing an injury claim against the drug maker.
For more information or to discuss your concerns, contact us today. We will connect you with an attorney for defective drugs who will evaluate your unique circumstances and direct you on how to proceed.
