Alli and Xenical Linked to Liver Injury

September 1, 2009

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating cases of serious liver damage in people using the weight loss drugs Alli and Xenical. Both are weight loss drugs containing orlistat. Xenical is a prescription drug containing 120mg of orlistat and Alli is the over the counter version of the drug containing only 60mg of orlistat.

The drugs are intended for use together with a reduced-calorie diet and work by preventing the absorption of fats, thereby reducing caloric intake. Among the reports of serious liver injury associated with orlistat, the FDA says that 27 of 32 total reported cases required hospitalization and six included liver failure. There are a number of commonly known side effects of taking the drugs- oily and loose stools, fecal incontinence, frequent or urgent bowel movements and flatulence. The symptoms of liver injury are different and include jaundice, weakness and abdominal pain.

The FDA released an early communication note on August 24, 2009 announcing its investigation. In this same report, the FDA noted that it was not able to establish a definite cause and effect relationship between the drugs and the injuries. The FDA recommends that consumers continue to use Xenical as prescribed by their physicians and Alli as directed. If you have experienced any of the symptoms of liver injury, including weakness or fatigue, fever, jaundice, brown urine, nausea, vomiting, light colored stool or loss of appetite you should contact your physician.

If you or a loved one has suffered liver damage due to the use of Alli or Xenical, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the lawyers at the Law Offices of d'Oliveira & Associates for a free case evaluation.

PLEASE SPEAK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE DISCONTINUING THE USE OF ALLI OR XENICAL OR ANY OTHER PERSCRIPTION MEDICATION.

Please contact our law office at at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation.