What is the weight loss effect of Orlistat capsules?

As a non-central nervous system drug, Orlistat (Orlistat) inhibits the action of gastrointestinal and pancreatic lipase, thereby blocking triglyceride hydrolysis and intestinal endothelial absorption of fatty acids. This mechanism prevents the absorption of approximately one-third of the fatty acids in food. Therefore it reduces calorie absorption without affecting appetite. Given its mechanism of action, Orlistat is more suitable for those who tend to eat fatty foods and is expected to have a greater weight loss effect in them than those with non-fatty food consumption habits.

The efficacy of orlistat in promoting weight loss through lifestyle changes is modest. In the Orlistat to Prevent Diabetes in Obese Subjects (XENDOS) study, the largest randomized controlled trial (RCT), orlistat resulted in a 2.4% reduction in total body weight after 4 years. It significantly reduced the risk of T2DM in the drug-treated group (9.0%) compared with the placebo-treated group (6.2%). Orlistat also lowers blood pressure (BP) and improves insulin sensitivity and blood lipids because it reduces intestinal fat absorption. However, in this study, 91% of patients treated with orlistat had at least one gastrointestinal problem, and 8% withdrew from the study due to adverse effects.

The original drug of Orlistat has been marketed in China, but it has not yet entered the scope of medical insurance. There are also domestically produced drugs developed by other pharmaceutical companies on the market. The price of each box may be around tens of RMB, which is cheap. The price of the Indian version of Orlistat listed overseas is 120mg*84 capsules per box, which may be around a few hundred yuan (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates). The ingredients of the two drugs are basically the same, but the manufacturers are different, and patients can choose by themselves.