Weight Loss Drug of the Early 2000s: A Look Back
In the early 2000s, the weight loss industry was booming, and the market was flooded with a wide range of weight loss supplements and medications. Among the most popular and widely-prescribed weight loss drugs of that era was a medication called Xenical. In this article, we’ll take a look back at Xenical, its history, and its impact on the weight loss industry.
What is Xenical?
Xenical, also known as orlistat, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called gastrointestinal lipids absorption inhibitors. It works by blocking the absorption of fat from food, which leads to a reduction in calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. Xenical was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999 and was widely prescribed for weight loss in the early 2000s.
How Does Xenical Work?
Xenical works by inhibiting the enzyme lipase, which is responsible for breaking down fats in the digestive system. By blocking lipase, Xenical prevents the body from absorbing dietary fat, which leads to a reduction in calorie intake. This reduction in calorie intake, combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can lead to significant weight loss.
The Benefits of Xenical
Xenical was hailed as a breakthrough in the weight loss industry due to its unique mechanism of action and efficacy. The medication was shown to be effective in:
- Reducing body mass index (BMI) in overweight and obese individuals
- Improving blood sugar control and cholesterol levels
- Reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Improving lipid profiles and reducing the risk of heart disease
The Drawbacks of Xenical
While Xenical was a promising weight loss medication, it was not without its drawbacks. The most common side effects of Xenical included:
- Diarrhea and abdominal pain
- Fatty stools and oily spotting
- Gas and flatulence
- Headache and muscle pain
Xenical’s Legacy
Xenical was a groundbreaking medication that paved the way for future weight loss drugs. Although it is no longer widely prescribed, its legacy can be seen in the many other weight loss medications that have been developed and approved since its release.
In 2012, the FDA approved Contrave, a weight loss medication that combines the active ingredients bupropion (Wellbutrin) and naltrexone (ReVia). Like Xenical, Contrave works by changing the way the brain responds to food and reducing appetite.
Conclusion
Xenical was a pioneering weight loss medication that revolutionized the industry in the early 2000s. Its unique mechanism of action and efficacy made it a popular choice among healthcare providers and patients alike. While it is no longer as widely prescribed as it once was, Xenical’s legacy can be seen in the many other weight loss medications that have been developed and approved since its release.
