The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that between 1999 and 2008, it received six reports of liver failure in patients who were taking the weight loss drug orlistat. Orlistat is currently sold over-the-counter as Alli by GlaxoSmithKline and in prescription form as Xenical by Roche.
Negative symptoms associated with use of orlistat include yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, weakness and stomach pain.
The FDA has not yet found a definite link between the reported liver injuries and the weight loss products, but the investigation is ongoing. The agency has not instructed physicians to stop prescribing the drug, but has issued a public alert to inform consumers that there are concerns about the medication.
Representatives from Glaxo stated that there is no evidence that Alli causes liver damage. Representatives from Roche weren't immediately available to comment.
(Source: wsj.com)
Labels: weight loss drugs, drugs, liver damage
Posted By: Aspen Education Group