Question
How do weight loss tablets interact with ARVs?
9 February 2010. Related: All topics, Drug interactions, Supplements and herbs.
Hi there again.
I wonder if you could give me some advice on side-effects.
I have recently purchased ALLI slimming tablets as I am really struggling to lose weight. I swim 30-50 lengths 3 times a week and eat fairly healthy with the odd curry every now and then and drink only on a Saturday, which I consider normal.
I am 36 years old, 5ft 7 inches tall, weigh 12 stone and have a BMI of 26.1, so I
Answer
Thank you for your question.
I understand how frustrating it can feel to eat healthily and exercise without loosing weight. However, whilst Alli has been shown to be effective at small weight loss in conjunction with a balanced diet, it may not be right for everyone.
Alli is from the trade name for a drug called orlistat. It works by preventing the fats in your diet from being absorbed, and they are passed though you unabsorbed (hence side effects of wind (flatulence), diarrhoea and messy underwear.
Hi Nosipho, it is better to ask your doctor for advice on weight loss. Duromine (phentermine) needs to be used very carefully, so your doctor can talk about whether this is likely to help or not. You also need to diet and exercise on this drug, so maybe try diet and exercise first before trying a drug.
Hi I’m Nosipho… I’m struggling to lose weight and I’m thinking of taking duromine tablets… Is it gonna affect me? Is it fine for me to use them since I’m on ARVs?