There has been much talk over the past six months about the latest weight loss tablet to hit the market : Alli! This is the first, over the counter tablet to contain Orlistat (a prescription only obesity drug). To obtain this tablet your doctor will have to weigh you first and if you have a BMI of over 28 then you can purchase this weight loss aid from your pharmacist.

GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturers, claim that taking Orlistat in small quantities will help you lose as much as 50% more weight than you would just dieting. How does this super drug work? Is there any side affects?

Firstly, the drug works by preventing approximately 30% of fat from entering your system. These tablets are taken 3 times a day before meals and you should avoid eating fatty foods and try to stick to a reduced calorie diet. Now the bad bit!! As Alli stops the fatty foods from entering your gut there are some side affects most are related to your digestive tract, so diarrhoea is the main side affect along with bowel cramps, wind and abdominal bloating.

If you can get past this (and most do) then you are on the way to increased weight loss.

Is Alli suitable for everyone? Most people with a BMI over 28 can use the tablets, there are a few exceptions which include: Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers; People who are on other medication such as Warfarin and other anticoagulants; People who have a problem absorbing nutrients.

As with all weight loss tablets you still have to exercise and watch what you are eating – the tablets won’t do it for you alone! Your doctor or dietician will advise you on the best way to proceed and again, if you
want to keep the weight off, you need to have a positive change of lifestyle.