Frequently Asked Questions

Roche Laboratories Inc. is the producer of Xenical, a weight loss drug that is designed to reduce the amount of fat that your body is able to digest. Understanding how your medication works is key to helping you maximize the benefit that this medication provides.

Xenical is a weight loss medication that targets the digestive system. Studies have shown that Xenical can block up to 1/3 of fat introduced into the body. Xenical is not an appetite suppressant and it will not change the rate of your metabolism or interact directly with your central nervous system.

Xenical is a prescription medication and as such must be prescribed by your doctor before it can be made available to you. When you meet with your doctor, you need to disclose your entire medical history so your doctor can make sure Xenical is right for you.

If you are taking Cyclosporine be sure your doctor knows. Xenical and Cyclosporine can both be taken, but must be taken at least 2 hours apart. Make sure to cover all other prescription and nonprescription medications you may be taking with your doctor to avoid any complications.

After being prescribed by your doctor, Xenical should be taken 3 times daily with reduced calorie meals. Xenical can be taken up to 1 hour after a meal and still be effective. Xenical should be taken orally with a liquid. After beginning Xenical treatment you need to continue to see your doctor to judge how long your treatment should go on and how effective your treatment is.

Clinical studies using over 4100 people have shown that over a 12-month period people using Xenical with a low calorie diet have lost on average 7.6 more pounds than people just doing a low calorie diet. 70% of the people tested lost 3% or more of their entire body fat in a 3-month period which averaged out to about 13 lbs. Additionally weight loss treatment with Xenical also helps to avoid a number of other weight related health risks including; high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, lower insulin levels, and a reduction in the risk of diabetes.

The most common side effects for Xenical included fatty/oily stool, oily spotting, intestinal gas with discharge, bowel movement urgency, poor bowel control, or headaches may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

The information within this FAQ is for your benefit, but cannot replace the advice of your doctor. Only a doctor can assess the risks and benefits of this product to you based on your own personal medical history. Please keep all prescription medications out of the reach of children.