How to Administer Prolistat (Orlistat)
Prolistat(Orlistat) is a weight-loss medication that works by preventing the absorption of dietary fat. To maximize its effectiveness and minimize side effects, follow this step-by-step guide carefully.
Confirm Your Prescription
Ensure Prolistat has been prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.
Verify your prescribed dosage (typically 120 mg capsules).
Discuss any medical conditions or other medications with your doctor before starting.
Take the Correct Dosage
The standard dose is one 120 mg capsule, taken three times a day with meals containing fat. (no meal, no meds)
If you skip a meal or eat a meal with no fat, you do not need to take Prolistat for that meal.
Never take more than the prescribed dose, as it will not increase effectiveness and may cause side effects.
Timing Your Dose
Take one capsule during, or up to one hour after, a meal that contains fat.
If you forget to take it within an hour of eating, skip the dose and take your next scheduled one with your next meal.
Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
Swallow the Capsule Properly
Swallow the Prolistat capsule whole with a full glass of water.
Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule.
Follow a Balanced, Low-Fat Diet
Prolistat works best with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet (about 30% of daily calories from fat).
Avoid high-fat meals as they can increase side effects like oily stools and diarrhea.
Spread your daily fat intake evenly across meals to minimize side effects.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion and prevent dehydration.
Avoid alcohol, as it contains empty calories and may slow weight loss progress.
Take a Multivitamin Daily
Prolistat reduces the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Take a multivitamin supplement once a day, preferably at bedtime, at least two hours after your last Prolistat dose.
Monitor for Side Effects
Common side effects include oily stools, increased bowel movements, gas, and stomach discomfort due to undigested fats.
If you experience severe diarrhea, stomach pain, or signs of liver problems (yellowing skin, dark urine), contact your doctor immediately.
Exercise for Better Results
Pair Prolistat with regular physical activity for the best weight loss outcomes.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
Discontinuing Prolistat
You can stop Prolistat at any time, but maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is crucial to sustaining weight loss.
If you stop taking Prolistat, continue following a low-fat diet and exercise routine to prevent weight regain.