The role of orlistat in weight management.

BACKGROUND: Most antiobesity drugs act centrally to reduce appetite or increase satiety. Orlistat is the first in a new class of drugs targeted at a single dietary component, in this case dietary fat. OBJECTIVE: To review the clinical actions and efficacy of orlistat and to discuss its place in overall weight management. DISCUSSION: Orlistat is best used in long term weight management as an adjunct to dietary modification and increased physical activity. The reduction in fat absorption results in a slow but sustained weight reduction and improved metabolic parameters such as reduced total, and LDL cholesterol. Side effects are minimised by maintaining a low fat diet.