Orlistat-Induced Systemic Adverse Events: A Review of Case Reports And Public Health Implications

Orlistat is a widely used gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor for obesity management. While its efficacy and safety are established under medical supervision, increasing unsupervised use has raised concerns regarding serious adverse events. This review aims to alert healthcare providers to the potential for significant adverse effects associated with Orlistat by synthesizing a collection of reported clinical cases. The review includes literature published between January 1988 and March 2025. We present case reports highlighting a range of adverse effects, including acute pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity, and acute oxalate nephropathy. These conditions are often linked to patient-specific vulnerabilities, pre-existing health conditions, or misuse, particularly among individuals with eating disorders. This review underscores the importance of careful patient selection, close monitoring, and increased awareness among family physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers to ensure the safe use of Orlistat. When appropriately prescribed and monitored, Orlistat remains a valuable tool in obesity management. However, its unsupervised use and potential for abuse can lead to significant health risks, emphasizing the need for professional oversight.