i have always  been on the constipation side but new to taking alli.  i want to know if the alli drug will still block the fat abosorption and digestion even though the fecal material is staying longer time in the colon or is it just enough that it made it to the colon and it doesn't get reabsorbed back into the body, much like water is reabsorbed from the colon.

Hi stssts,

The fat which alli blocks and is not absorbed will be eliminated.  How fast your GI tract digests and eliminates food is unique to each individual but alli's action is not, it will block up to 25% of the fat that has been consumed with the dose.  The difference being how long it will take to experience treatment effects (if any), the faster your GI motility the faster the effects and the slower the longer it may take to appear, which is why the literature cautions that an effect can occur up to 72 hours after a high fat meal.  It has been seen that alli dieters where constipation has been a problem,the program helps with regularity.

Hope this helps.

Sophia De Monte RPh

 This is going to sound crazy but has anyone reported having cnstipation even with taking the alli pill?  The reason I ask is because I think that the pill may-be constipating me!!  If it does it is okay to take a mild laxitive?  And will the pill still be effective for me? 

Hi Rebecca,

Yes people do experience constipation while on alli.  It is fine to take a laxative to relieve it if necessary. Alli is blocking about 25% of the fat you are eating from being absorbed.

Will update more on your more recent post.

Sophia De Monte RPh