The Effect of Low-dose Orlistat (60 mg Twice Daily) on Weight-loss and Markers of Metabolic Disease in Obese Subjects: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Aims: The use of Orlistat as an aid for weight loss has increased among obese individuals over recent years. Although the most frequently administered dosage is 120 mg three times daily, data on the metabolic effects of this drug are inconclusive. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of chronic, low-dose Orlistat administration on weight reduction and metabolic profile among individuals who present for weight loss. Methods: We report here results from a three month study at a low-dose (60 mg twice daily) in 15 obese subjects with metabolic syndrome characteristics (hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, hypertension) with no change of diet and physical habits and no other drugs. Results and Conclusion: We observed a significant decrease of weight, BMI, glucose and glycated haemoglobin, diastolic pressure, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, with a mild significant rise of HDL cholesterol. Of relevance, the decrease of non-HDL fraction was double of that of LDL (13 vs 7%), possibly suggesting effectiveness not only on LDL cholesterol, but also on cholesterol carried by VLDL, which transport triglycerides that are the chief target of lipase inhibition by orlistat. We suggest that Orlistat, even at low-doses, allows weight reduction as well as significant metabolic improvements.