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Symptoms of overdose may include:
The results of a massive overdose of Xenical are unknown, although the drug seems relatively harmless. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose
, seek medical attention.
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Possible food and drug interactions
If Xenical is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Xenical with the fo
llowing:
- Cyclosporine (Neoral and Sandimmune)
- Warfarin (Coumadin)
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Other medical problems
The effects of Xenical during pregnancy have not been adequately studied and the drug is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediat
ely.
It is not known whether Xenical appears in breast milk. Do not take it while breastfeeding.
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What is this medicine
Xenical blocks absorption of dietary fat into the bloodstream, thereby reducing the number of calories you get from a meal. At the usual dosage level, it cuts fat absorption by almost one-third. Combi
ned with a low-calorie diet, it is used to promote weight loss and discourage the return of unwanted pounds.
The drug is prescribed for the frankly obese and for merely overweight people who
have other health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. Your weight status is determined by your body mass index (BMI), a comparison of height to weight.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow?
To help you get started on reducing the fat in your diet to about 30%, read the labels on all the foods you buy. While you are taking Xenical, you should avoid foods that have more than 30% fat. When
eating meat, poultry (chicken) or fish, eat only 2 or 3 ounces (about the size of a deck of cards). Choose lean cuts of meat and remove the skin from poultry. Fill up your meal plate with more grains,
fruits, and vegetables. Replace whole-milk products with nonfat or 1% milk and reduced- or low-fat dairy items. Cook with less fat. Use vegetable oil spray when cooking. Salad dressings; many baked i
tems; and prepackaged, processed, and fast foods are usually high in fat. Use the low- or non-fat versions of these foods and/or cut back on serving sizes.
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What side effects can this medication cause?
More common side effects may include:
- Abdominal discomfort or pain, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, diarrhea, dizziness, earache, fatigue, fatty or oily stools, fecal urgency or incontinence, fl
u, gas with fecal discharge, gum problems, headache, increased defecation, menstrual problems, muscle pain, nausea, oily discharge, rectal discomfort or pain, respiratory tract infections, skin rash,
sleep problems, tooth problems, urinary tract infections, vaginal inflammation, vomiting
Less common side effects may include:
- Dry skin, ear/nose/throat problems, joint disorders
<
br> Side effects that usually occur after the first year of treatment with Xenical include: depression, leg pain, swollen feet, and tendonitis.
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