32.3 Lipase Inhibitors

Lipase inhibitors are weight loss medications that work by blocking fat absorption in your gut. They're like bouncers at a club, turning away fatty molecules so they can't get into your system.

Using these meds means you'll poop out more fat, which can lead to some messy side effects. But if you stick to a low-fat diet and take them correctly, they can help you shed pounds alongside lifestyle changes.

Lipase Inhibitors in Weight Management

Mechanism of action

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  4.7 Lipid Uptake, Absorption & Transport | Nutrition View original

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• Orlistat inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipases in the gastrointestinal tract reduces breakdown of dietary fats into absorbable components
• Inhibiting lipases decreases fat absorption by ~30% unabsorbed fats excreted in feces
• Reduced fat absorption lowers caloric intake promotes weight loss
• Does not affect absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, or minerals

Side effects and contraindications

• Common gastrointestinal side effects: oily spotting (underwear or clothing), flatus with discharge, fecal urgency, fatty or oily stools, increased defecation, fecal incontinence
• Side effects more likely with high-fat diet
• Contraindicated in chronic malabsorption syndrome, cholestasis (reduced bile flow), pregnancy, breastfeeding
• Use cautiously in patients with history of oxalate nephrolithiasis or hyperoxaluria

Nursing considerations

• Administer with or within 1 hour after meal containing fat
• Encourage reduced-calorie, low-fat diet evenly distribute fat intake across meals
• Monitor for signs of fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, K) recommend supplementation if needed
• Assess for drug interactions (cyclosporine, levothyroxine, anticoagulants)
• Evaluate weight loss progress provide support and encouragement

Patient education

• Lipase inhibitors are adjunct to reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity emphasize importance of lifestyle modifications for successful weight management
• Follow low-fat diet to minimize gastrointestinal side effects provide examples of low-fat food choices (lean meats, fruits, vegetables) and healthy meal planning strategies
• Take medication with or within 1 hour after meal containing fat not effective if taken without food
• Potential for fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies importance of supplementation if recommended by healthcare provider
• Report severe or persistent side effects to healthcare provider
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor weight loss progress, side effects, and overall health status