A new study from New York University suggests that certain prescription drugs can be used as a possible weight-loss aid. The study, published in the May 2024 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, is presented at the 2016 American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions.
Dr. Mark Kocin and colleagues, who led the study, say that some of the most common medications that can be used as a weight-loss aid include the popular anti-obesity drug orlistat (Orlistat), the weight-loss medication phentermine, the anti-depressant sertraline and the muscle relaxant clonidine. These drugs are commonly prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and are typically prescribed as part of a treatment plan for type 2.
The new study, which was published in the July 2019 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, is one of three small studies that evaluated the use of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The other two studies were funded by the maker of the company that makes the brand name of Orlistat, GlaxoSmithKline. Neither study was published in the issue.
Researchers from the New York University School of Pharmacy, which has funded the study, recruited patients between the ages of 18 and 60. They examined the patients' medical records and compared them to the patients who were assigned to the two groups. The investigators were able to determine whether patients in the study were on orlistat, the active ingredient in Orlistat, or phentermine.
In their report, Kocin and colleagues say that the medication group had similar weight loss with patients who were not on the medication but had also been prescribed it for their weight-loss goals.
But Kocin and colleagues note that some patients who took the medication were also taking orlistat, but they did not find it was associated with any weight loss.
They said the results of the study also suggest that the medication was not associated with the weight-loss benefits of other diabetes medications such as phentermine, a type 2 diabetes drug.
The study also found that patients on orlistat or phentermine lost 20 percent of their body weight, compared with 10 percent of patients on placebo. But the researchers note that this weight loss was not caused by the medication and may not have been caused by the patient's weight-loss goals. They also say that patients who took the drug did not have any additional benefit from the medication in comparison to patients on placebo.
The results of Kocin and colleagues, who led the study, showed that patients who were prescribed orlistat for weight loss, but not for weight loss, had no weight gain or loss. They also showed that patients taking the medication were also taking orlistat, but not the other medications, or the drugs they were prescribed.
The researchers also found that patients on orlistat had similar weight loss with patients on other medications, but not with the other medications.
They note that the medications in the study were not associated with any weight gain or loss. Kocin and colleagues say that the results of the study do not suggest that the medications can be used as a weight-loss aid, but they do not recommend patients on other medications to take the drug. They also note that patients taking other medications may have a greater risk of developing diabetes. In the study, they also found that patients who were prescribed orlistat were also taking orlistat, but not the other medications, or the drugs they were prescribed.
The researchers also note that the patients who were prescribed orlistat had a similar risk of diabetes compared with those who were on the other medications. This may suggest that the medication in the study was not associated with a higher risk of developing diabetes. They also point out that patients who were prescribed orlistat were also on a lower dose of the drug, so the risk of developing diabetes was not greater with the lower dose. They also note that some of the other medications that patients taking the medication had been on, including anti-depressant medication sertraline and the muscle relaxant clonidine.
The study was published in the May 2024 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Source:
The Associated Press© 2025 New York University School of Pharmacy, Inc.
This report is an extension of
. It is part of a larger study that looked at the use of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications in people with type 2 diabetes and found that there was no evidence to support these findings.
Orlistat is an effective weight-control medication that reduces appetite and weight. The medication works by blocking enzymes that cause fat absorption, leading to a reduction in appetite. Orlistat is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations. Each capsule is coated to prevent moisture from entering the capsule, ensuring protection from direct sunlight. Orlistat is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects such as oily or fatty stools, flatulence, and abdominal pain. Patients should be aware that excessive use of orlistat may increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers and bleeding. Patients should discuss the use of orlistat with their healthcare provider and follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and timing for optimal results.
Orlistat is indicated for the treatment of obesity, weight-related conditions, and related conditions. It is also used to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and related complications, including weight-related conditions like type 2 diabetes. Orlistat is used to treat conditions such as:
Orlistat is also used in overweight adults to help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and related complications. It may also be prescribed for the prevention of obesity and related complications.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before starting orlistat to ensure it is suitable for your specific needs. They can assess your medical history and determine if Orlistat is appropriate for you. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and timing for optimal results. Always follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and timing for optimal results.
Q: How long does Orlistat take to work for weight-loss?
A: Orlistat works by blocking fat absorption, which is what promotes weight loss.
Q: How long does Orlistat take to work?
A: Orlistat takes up to 2 weeks to begin working, depending on the individual's response.
Q: Can Orlistat cause side effects?
A: Orlistat may cause side effects in some individuals, including oily or fatty stools, flatulence, and abdominal pain. Common side effects include oily or fatty stools, flatulence, and flatulence with discharge. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if any of these symptoms persist or worsen over time.
Q: Is Orlistat effective for weight-loss?
A: Orlistat is effective for weight-loss when used as directed by a healthcare provider. It can help to reduce the risk of weight regain, and it may help to reduce the number of pounds lost by people with obesity.
Q: How long should I take Orlistat?
A: It is recommended to take Orlistat for at least 2 months before beginning treatment. Orlistat can take up to 3 months to work, and it may take longer to start working after that. Your healthcare provider will discuss any concerns or side effects with you before starting Orlistat.
Q: Can I take Orlistat for weight-loss?
A: Orlistat is not suitable for weight-loss, but it can be taken by patients who are overweight or obese.
Product Details:
| Active Ingredient: | Orlistat |
| Manufacturer: | Novartis Pharmaceuticals |
| Pack Size: | 1 tablet |
| Form: | Tablet |
| Packaging: | Inks |
| Pack Type: | Box |
| Strength: | 120 MG |
| Brand: | |
| Shelf life: | 6-9 Months |
| Dosage Form: | |
Lupron® (Orlistat) is a medicine designed to assist individuals in managing weight. It contains the active ingredient Orlistat, which works by blocking the absorption of fat in the body. It is used in the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other related conditions. If you have diabetes, and you're looking for a weight loss aid, this medicine may be of interest.
Orlistat is used as a prescription medication to help reduce body weight and to prevent weight regain. It is also used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Lupron works by inhibiting the fat-binding protein in the gut.
Last updated on: May 2025Read more:
This product is classified through UK Medication Classifier. This product categorizes weight loss as a product that includes a range of different products and is not a product that requires a prescription.See MoreMedicine is a vital component of survival, resilience, and overall quality of life. It plays a vital role in health by protecting the human genome and maintaining the health of the environment.Swallow the capsules whole, with a glass of water, with or without food.
Do not use if:
Directions for useThis medication is a prescription drug product. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Do not take if you:
Do not have an appetite suppressant or alcohol dependence.Orlistat is an FDA-approved weight loss medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of dietary fats in your body. The undigested fat passes through your intestines and is what causes your body to lose excess calories. Orlistat helps to reduce the amount of fat absorbed and helps you to lose weight.
Before starting or using this medication, tell your health care provider if you have any of these conditions:
This medication may not be right for you. Talk to your health care provider if you have any health concerns.
This medication may be taken with or without food.
Side effects that may occur with the use of this medication are listed below. If you are experiencing side effects, talk to your health care provider.
If you get an allergic reaction, stop taking and see your health care provider immediately.
If you are experiencing an allergic reaction, stop taking and see your health care provider immediately.
If you experience an allergic reaction, stop taking and see your health care provider immediately.
If you are allergic to orlistat or any of the ingredients in this medication, stop taking and see your health care provider immediately.
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