Sammy asked
Is it safe to take Alli and garcinia cambogia together?
Answer
Potential interactions among herbal medications can be difficult to determine as the vast majority of them have not been thoroughly studied.
Having said that, there is no literature documenting an interaction between Alli and garcinia cambogia.
However, both of these medications are used for weight loss and it is important to eat a balanced diet to prevent any sort of malnutrition. This is particularly true with Alli.
Alli And Weight Loss
Alli (Orlistat), in a general sense, is a 'fat absorption inhibitor'. It inactivates certain enzymes in the stomach and the small intestine, which in turn inhibit the metabolism of fat to a degree. Recommended doses of Alli (~120 mg) inhibit around 30% of dietary fat absorption.[1]
Since Alli reduces the amount of absorbed, it may also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
In general, it is recommended to take a daily multivitamin while taking Alli and use caution is taking other weight loss drugs that could also potentially reduce your intake of important vitamins and minerals.
What Is Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia cambogia is a fruit that is native to India and Southeast Asia and is high in a compound known as Hydroxycitric acid. This is the compound that is thought to induce weight loss.[2]
In fact, it has been reported to reduce appetite and inhibit the production of fat in the body. Multiple scientific studies have in fact shown that patients taking this herbal medication achieved significantly greater weight loss than those who took a placebo. It has also been shown to be quite well tolerated with only mild nausea and chest pain having occurred in scientific studies.[3]
There isn't much information available regarding potential drug interactions with garcinia. Current data suggests that it may interact with certain antidepressants, like Zoloft, since garcinia may increase levels of serotonin.[4]
Additionally, it may also raise liver enzymes in some individuals so caution must be taken if using with other drugs that have effects on the liver.
Summary
Current data suggests that there is no drug interaction between Alli and garcinia cambogia but remember to stay healthy while dieting!
References
- ^ Elsevier ClinicalKey: Alli monograph. ClinicalKey
- ^ Natural Standard: Garcinia Monograph Natural Standard
- ^ A comprehensive scientific overview of Garcinia cambogia. PubMed
- ^ Serotonin toxicity associated with Garcinia cambogia over-the-counter supplement. PubMed
