Impact of Orlistat on Body Weight and Lipid Profile of Adult Population

Abstract: Orlistat is currently the best available form of prescribed obesity medication which acts on the gastrointestinal system and works by reducing fat absorption in the gut which is eliminated in bowel movements. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of Orlistat on weight reduction, body mass index (BMI) and lipid profile of the Egyptian peoples. Methodology We recruit 55 healthy obese persons (BMI more than 30) and the same number of normal weight act as a control; both groups completed a questionnaire for demographic data and risk factors of obesity and the obese group takes Orlistat for 2 months while the control group take placebo tablet containing vitamins and both groups adheres to 1200 Calories diet. Weight and lipid profile (Total cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL and HDL) were measured before and after Orlistat administration in both groups. By the end of two months only 35 obese and 38 none obese complete the study and the remaining were drouped out from the study. Results: The results showed that there is a statistical significant difference in BMI before and after Orlistat (P < 0.001) as it decreased from 37.08 ± 4.67 before to 35.40 ± 4.60 after, the same occurred in weight reduction as it decreased from 95.3 ± 12.6 kg before orilstat to 91.1 ± 12.9 after, Waist circumference decreased from 113.0 ± 11.2 to 109.6 ± 11.7 and this difference was statistically significant also. there is a statistical significant difference in all parameters of lipid profile before and after Orlistat traetement as total cholesterol decreased from 199.9 ± 29.5 to 173.7 ± 27 and . Triglycerides from 199.4 ± 54.6 to 174.3 ± 50.7, LDL cholesterols decreased from 120.7 ± 24.8 to 102.4 ± 25.1, while HDL cholesterols increased from 38.3 ± 4.6 to 42.5 ± 5.5 and p value was <0.001. We conclude that Orlistat is one of the best prescribed obesity medications available for obese patients. Although research indicates that it can promote weight loss, there remain problems with adherence and much variability in patient outcomes