Diet Pill "Alli" approved for over-the-counter use

Alli is the over-the-counter version of a prescription drug called Xenical, which has been sold in the United States since 1999.

The drug works by blocking the breakdown and absorption of fat in the intestine, at the same time blocking absorption of calories from that fat. Fat that is not absorbed merely passes through the system, the reason Alli also causes annoying side effects — ranging from flatulence and oily stool to occasional loss of bowel control.

In studies, about half of patients taking Alli in combination with a diet and exercise plan lost 5 percent or more of their body weight in six months. The product’s maker, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, said it planned sell Alli for about $2 to $3 a day.

Bonnie - I have received many complaints over the years from clients who tried this medication through their physician. GSK's decision to make this over the counter is a head scratcher.