What Is the Difference Between Alli & Xenical?

There is a tremendous variety of weight-loss pills on the market that aid consumers in shedding unwanted pounds. Some diet pills such as Alli are available online and over the counter without a prescription, while others such as Xenical are only available through a physician's orders.

Comparison

• Alli and Xenical are diet pills used as weight-loss aids. These medications treat obesity in patients by blocking the fat you eat, keeping it from being absorbed by your body. This development is quite different than other popular diet pills that work by suppressing the appetite.

Features of Alli

• In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration approved and released Alli without a prescription. Alli can be purchased over the counter at pharmacy chains and comes in a bottle containing 60 mg capsules. According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Alli promotes weight loss by reducing the number of calories an individual absorbs.

Features of Xenical

• Orlistat was released in 1999 under the brand name Xenical. This drug, dispensed in 120 mg capsules, is a stronger version of Orlistat than Alli and is still available only by prescription.

Side effects

• Both brand names of Orlistat have similar side effects because they are the same drug, just available in different dosages. Most of the negative effects associated with Alli and Xenical are bowel related and include gas, oily spotting, fatty stool, diarrhea, fecal urgency, abdominal pain and soft stool.

Warning

• According to the FDA, new safety information is being reviewed regarding reports of liver-related adverse reactions in patients taking Orlistat. As with any new medication or diet and exercise program, it is recommended you first discuss the drugs with your physician, as well as disclose any other prescriptions you are currently taking.