Why is the use of Alli a national problem in the United States?

While specific drugs and supplements are readily available over the counter, this is a testament to a broader problem of abuse of these widely available over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Especially with regards to laxatives and diet pills which are being consumed by adolescents and adults for weight control.  Many of these products like Orlistat(Alli)  are not medically recommended or are shown to be ineffective for weight loss, even in the short term.   

Why did it become important to investigate the nonprescription availability of Alli?

 As a weight loss aid, Orlistat (Xenical®) has been available by prescription in the United States since 1999.  U.S Food and Administration(FDA) approved Orlistat for nonprescription sales under the brand name of Alli.  Even though Orlistat being easily available for patients with eating disorders has been an advantage, however, certain side effects were being reported, specifically gastrointestinal side effects.           

How does Orlistat aid in weight reduction?

Orlistat is said to help in blocking the enzyme Lipase, which breaks down fats in the food you eat. While Lipase helps the body to absorb fat and is produced by the pancreas.  By suppressing this enzyme, part of the fat that passes through the digestive tract will not be broken down and will instead leave the body via the stool  

Researchers have claimed that you absorb 30% less fat when you take Orlistat(Alli). This assists in weight reduction by reducing the number of calories intake.  This also contributes to certain side effects which have been reported to be unpleasant, to say the least  

What are the most common side effects of taking Orlistat?

While like any other medicine, Orlistat( Alli) can have rather uncomfortable side effects. It’s better to be aware of possible side effects if you’re considering taking this weight loss drug  

•  Diarrhea 

•  Bladder pain

• Fatty, oily, or loose stools 

• Insomnia 

• Increased flatulence, sometimes with discharge

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Unusual tiredness or weakness

• Cold-like symptoms

       If you are experiencing allergic reactions, after taking Orlistat(Alli). Get emergency help. Some severe side effects can be 

• Severe stomach pain

• Severe pain in your lower back

• Blood in the urine, painful or difficult urination

• Signs of liver problem, including nausea, upper stomach problem, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice(yellowing of the skin or eyes)   

Click here to know more about Alli side effects when to avoid taking this medicine and dosage.

What is Aldara used for?

Imiquimod (Aldara®)  is a commercially available topical cream. It goes by other brand names such as Zyclara and Bascellex.  It is has been currently approved by US Drug and Food Administration(FDA) and is administered for treatment of biopsy-confirmed small superficial basal cell carcinoma measuring up to 2cm in its greatest diameter over the neck, trunk, or extremities(excluding the hands and the feet), non-hyperkeratotic non-hypertrophic actinic keratoses over the face and /scalp, and external genital and perianal warts(condylomata acuminate) in adults.    

How does Aldara cream work?

Aldara cream contains imiquimod 5%, which acts by stimulating the body’s defense mechanisms.  It is believed that it works by binding immune cells in the skin causing them to release natural defense chemicals called cytokines. While this cream also, seems to exert some pro-apoptotic activity against tumor cells. This cream triggers the infiltration of tumor destructive cells (T- cell lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and macrophages) at the basal cell carcinoma lesions thereby reducing the defense mechanism of the tumor.     

What are the most common side effects reported after using Aldara cream?

These were certain side effects that occurred during clinical trials. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor

• Application site reactions include redness, wearing away of the skin, small open sores, burning pain, tenderness, irritation, rash, soreness, lumps on the skin. Although these skin reactions are mild to moderate and indicate the product is working. But if your skin reacts too badly after using the cream then wash the cream off with mild soap and contact your doctor. Your doctor may suggest that you stop using the cream for few days:

• Flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, headache, back pain, and swelling of glands in the neck, armpit, and groin

To know more about Dosage and How to use this cream. 

Click here to know more about Aldara side effects

Summary:

While taking any strong medication comes with the possibility of side effects. Alli and Aladra being no exception to this. It’s always a good idea to have a clear-cut discussion with your doctor regarding the dosage and application of your medicine. If you’re experiencing adverse side effects after taking Alli or even  Aldara then you should immediately consult with your doctor.