GSK has launched the first-ever over the counter orlistat 60mg diet pill, alli.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has launched orlistat 60mg – brand name alli – to aid weight loss when taken in conjunction with a balanced, low-fat diet.

The drug was first approved in the US in 2007 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however this is the first time the European Commission has approved a non-prescription product for weight loss.

GSK claims that by taking one tablet three times a day – with meals that contain the recommended amount of fat – people can lose 50% more fat than dieting alone. Those taking the pill should combine its use with a reduced calorie, lower fat diet alongside the practical online help that is also available.

Manfred Scheske, President GSK Consumer Healthcare Europe, said: “alli offers adults a real opportunity for losing weight. alli has been well received by millions of people in the US and we are very excited about the number of people it could help across Europe achieve their goal to lose weight.”

Orlistat, the active ingredient in alli, works by preventing fat absorption in the digestive system. According to GSK, Orlistat has been available as a prescription treatment for 10 years and its safety has been well-documented.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) has issued pharmacists with guidance for over-the-counter prescription of the drug. Its overall assessment of orlistat is that it “can help achieve steady, gradual weight loss, when used as directed.” It advised that treatment should last no longer than six months and that side-effects could include diarrhoea and other adverse gastrointestinal reactions.

According to BBC Online, the Royal College of GPs recommends that anyone thinking about taking the drug should visit their GP first for advice.

alli can be used by adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28kg/m2 or more, and is available in pharmacies across Europe, priced around £50 for a month’s supply.