alli® is part of a weight loss program that rewards patients with increased weight loss when they eat an appropriate reduced-calorie, low-fat diet, but it can also signal to them when they exceed recommended fat intake levels. These GI side effects, which have been the subject of much media coverage, are often a reflection of the patient’s failure to adhere to the recommended fat intake levels (around 15g of fat per meal), not alli itself.
GI side effects may include:
- loose or more frequent stools that may be hard to control
- an urgent need to go to the bathroom
- gas with oily spotting
Some patients may also experience GI side effects at the start of their weight loss plan, while they are learning to adjust their diets. While excess fat that is excreted is not harmful, patients could be distressed by the experience.
Not all patients will experience GI side effects, but those that do can reduce the likelihood of these effects by taking alli as directed and sticking with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. The alli starter pack and support plan at myalli.com can help patients manage their diet appropriately.