Endocrine Abstracts

Orlistat selectively inhibits gastrointestinal lipase, thereby preventing fat dissolution and reducing fat absorption. Many studies have shown good effect of Orlistat on parameters of metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus type 2.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Orlistat on:body mass reduction, serum lipid level, blood pressure level, fasting plasma glucose level (FPG) by obese patients with prediabetes.

Study includes 60 obese subjects aged 20–58 years with hyperlipidemia; hypertension (RR>130/80 mmHg);body mass index (BMI) >=30 kg/m²; LDL serum cholesterol >=4.2 mml/l; fasting plasma glucose level (FPG≥6.1 and <7.00 mmol/l) The subjects have never had any medical treatment. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: group 1:30 subjects (Orlistat caps., 120 mg×3/day); group 2: 30 subjects (Placebo 3×1 caps.). Duration of survey: 12 weeks (total 6 check-ups – visits). All subjects were on a hypocaloric diet and have had a physical activity.

The results of study show: body mass was decreased in group 1 by 8.8 kg (8.29%), and in group 2 by 3.4 kg (3.82%); FPG was decreased in group 1 by 14.8%, group 2 has shown no change; LDL cholesterol in group 1 was decreased by 34.5%, and in group 2 by 5.0%; HDL cholesterol was increased in group 1 by 2.7%, and in group 2 decreased by 2.5%; Total triglycerides were decreased in group 1 by 15.3%, and in group 2 by 5.4%; blood pressure decrease in group 1 compared to group 2 has shown statistical significance (P<0.05).

Orlistat significantly improve all metabolic parameters in patients with prediabetes and reduce risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Good effect of orlistat compared to non-medical therapy (diet and physical activity) is accomplished significantly by decreasing body mass.