Arsenic - Xenical (Orlistat) Interaction
Herbal: Arsenic
Drug: Orlistat
Brand names:
Xenical, Alli
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 22, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Orlistat and Arsenic. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Arsenic Overview
Arsenic is a trace element naturally present in the diet, with organic forms being generally non-toxic in low amounts, while inorganic forms can be harmful. It is found in foods such as seafood, poultry, grains (especially rice), bread, cereal products, mushrooms, and dairy. The estimated daily intake of organic arsenic is 12-50 mcg, with a suggested requirement of 12-25 mcg daily, while inorganic arsenic intake is estimated at 3.5-10 mcg daily. Arsenic plays a potential role in metabolism, the recycling of methionine, taurine function, and the regulation of gene expression in the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, arsenic has been used to treat various inflammatory disorders, but it is generally only found in homeopathic preparations.
Orlistat Overview
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Orlistat (prescription and nonprescription) is used with an individualized low-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program to help people lose weight. Prescription orlistat is used in overweight people who may also have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or heart disease. Orlistat is also used after weight-loss to help people keep from gaining back that weight. Orlistat is in a class of medications called lipase inhibitors. It works by preventing some of the fat in foods eaten from being absorbed in the intestines. This unabsorbed fat is then removed from the body in the stool.
Arsenic - More Interactions
Arsenic interacts with 157 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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