I am 5'1"; 165 lbs. as of this writing. My initial goal is 145 lbs. I have been taking Alli since July, 2007.  I lost 20 lbs. in approximately six months (down to 155 lbs.), but unfortunately I have gained back 10 lbs.  It seemed that had Alli stopped working . . . although as I have read several postings I understand this is actually not the case.  Suddenly over the last three weeks, it is almost like I am starting the program all over again . . . the treatment effects have returned bigtime and I need to wear a sanitary napkin all the time.  I think the treatment effects now are even worse than when I started the program.  Is this unusual or unhealthy? 

Hi rsalvado,

It seems that you have gotten off track and need to reaccess what you are doing.

Alli will block 25% of the fat that has been consumed with that meal.  This does not change with the duration of treatment.  Your body does adapt (survival) and changes rates of metabolism and the enzymes it secretes dependent on the foods you eat and caloric intake.  As you lose weight your metabolism may slow which is why it is so important to exercise, to keep the metabolsm up and to burn those calories.

Usually your body does adjust to the effects of Alli and it becomes more tolerant to treatment effects.  Though undesirable the effects are not unhealthy.

It may be helpful for you to start a food and exercise journal.  By documenting everything that goes in your mouth and why you will be able to pinpoint where you are off and what you are doing right.  

Hope this helps.

Sophia De Monte RPh