Which two GI side effects are commonly associated with orlistat and can affect adherence?

Which two GI side effects are commonly associated with orlistat and can affect adherence?

• A. Steatorrhea and oily stools
• B. Nausea and vomiting
• C. Constipation and abdominal pain
• D. Headache and dizziness

Answer: (A)

Orlistat causes fat not to be absorbed in the intestine, so the unabsorbed fat stays in the stool. The most characteristic GI effects reflecting this fat malabsorption are steatorrhea (greasy, bulky stools) and oily stools. These changes can be noticeable and sometimes embarrassing, making them a common reason patients stop taking the medication, especially if they eat meals high in fat. Other GI symptoms like nausea/vomiting, constipation/abdominal pain, or headaches/dizziness can occur with various medicines, but they are not the hallmark side effects of orlistat and are less likely to drive adherence issues.

Orlistat causes fat not to be absorbed in the intestine, so the unabsorbed fat stays in the stool. The most characteristic GI effects reflecting this fat malabsorption are steatorrhea (greasy, bulky stools) and oily stools. These changes can be noticeable and sometimes embarrassing, making them a common reason patients stop taking the medication, especially if they eat meals high in fat.

Other GI symptoms like nausea/vomiting, constipation/abdominal pain, or headaches/dizziness can occur with various medicines, but they are not the hallmark side effects of orlistat and are less likely to drive adherence issues.