Orlistat: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
ORLISTAT is indicated for obesity management including weight loss and weight maintenance when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label f81dfaeb…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
ORLISTAT is indicated for obesity management including weight loss and weight maintenance when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet. ORLISTAT is also indicated to reduce the risk for weight regain after prior weight loss. ORLISTAT is indicated for obese patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m 2 or ≥27 kg/m 2 in the presence of other risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia). Table 1 illustrates body mass index (BMI) according to a variety of weights and heights. The BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. For example, a person who weighs 180 lbs and is 5 ' 5 " would have a BMI of 30. Table 1 Body Mass Index (BMI), kg/m 2 Conversion Factors: Weight in lbs ÷ 2.2 = weight in kilograms (kg) Height in inches × 0.0254 = height in meters (m) 1 foot = 12 inches |
Conditions associated with Orlistat in labeling
Hyperlipidemia
Elevated levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood, a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke....
Hypertension
Chronically elevated blood pressure that puts strain on the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain. Often ha...
Obesity
A complex disease involving excessive body fat that increases the risk of many other health conditions....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orlistat used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Orlistat?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Orlistat require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Orlistat.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.