FDA Probes Orlistat (Alli and Xenical) For Link To Liver Damage

Yesterday the FDA issued what it refers to as an “early communication” advising Drs. and patients that it is investigating whether the weight control drug Orlistat, which is marketed over the counter as Alli, and by prescription as Xenical, may cause liver injury. Thus far, the FDA reports it has received 32 reports of serious liver injury, which include 6 reports of complete liver failure, of patients who were using Orlistat. The FDA is now reviewing data provided by the manufacturers of Orlistat of suspected cases of liver injury. In its press release, the FDA has emphasized that no definite association between liver injury and use of this drug has been determined at this time.

GlaxoSmithKline, which manufactures Alli, the OTC version of this drug, insists “there is no evidence that Alli causes liver damage”. The company went on to indicate the people who are overweight or obese are predisposed to liver problems.
My only comment on this issue is the use of medication to lose weight. Time and time again you will here experts in this area say, “there is no easy fix…no magic pill” to make your weight problems go away. It all comes down to 2 things, diet and exercise. Watch what you put in your mouth, and more importantly, how much you are putting in your mouth and get out there and move! I will continue to monitor the concerns raised on this drug and will update here when further information is released. If you have any concerns or issues regarding Alli or Xenical, you are welcome to contact me to discuss them.