Question:
Has anyone use Xenical to lose weight before surgery?

My Doctor said he would like me to lose weight before my surgery. I am still waiting for insurance approval. In the meantime I need to lose an expected amount of weight and I am having difficulty because I can not exercise as I have a very bad knee. My Dr. recommended Zenical. Has any one used this before wls? And did you lose weight?    — [Anonymous] (posted on March 13, 2001)

March 13, 2001
I used Xenical for about 4-5 months. Of course I gained back all the weight I lost while I was using it, but..I did work for me. It was easy to cheat with; I just didn't take it when I wanted to have pizza! But the times I did eat something greasy while I was taking the pills...watch out! EMBARRASSING! Once at work I could feel it leaking, it feels like diarrhea. I walked quickly to the bathroom, and found out I had a yellow, oily mess on my underwear and slip. Thank goodness it didn't get onto my dress. I had to throw those things away and go home for lunch for new undies. After that, I kept a spare pair in my desk-drawer. Of course, now that I've had my RNY, I no longer worry about leaking! Good luck to you in your efforts to lose weight prior to the surgery. I know it's hard!!!
   — Kristy J.

March 13, 2001
I used Xenical for 5 months. It is messy at first, but after a couple of weeks, I didn't have any problems with the oily stool anymore. You do have to be careful of what you eat and limit your fat intake. (otherwise it is messy) Once you stop taking it, you may gain the weight back (as I did). It sounds like it may be a viable answer for your needs. Just remember, if you think you need to sneak a little gas out. Go to the bathroom to do it, or you may get more than you bargained for.
   — Karen R.

March 14, 2001
i have been on xenical before.i lost 11.5 pounds and regained them.not saying it will not work for you though,Debra
   — Debra C.

March 14, 2001
Which doctor wants you to lose weight, the surgeon? How much weight do you need to lose? Go to Xenical.com and get the facts. I took two pills and that was enough for me. I would never put them in my body again. However, it sounds like some people have found them to be useful. If it's a small amount of weight and it would be for a short period of time, it might be helpful. It is very expensive so take that into account too. If it's your regular doc. who wants you to lose, get a new one. Oops, didn't meant to be harsh there. :)
   — kcanges

March 14, 2001
I took Xenical for about a year and GAINED 30 lbs! Side effects are pretty bad at first but get better. Even with Xenical you have to stay on a pretty strict diet, especially low fat.
   — Randy L.