Orlistat and calcium oxalate crystalluria: an association that needs consideration

Obesity is currently an epidemic across the globe. Obese patients unable to achieve significant weight loss with lifestyle changes alone may require drug therapy. Clinical trials have shown that orlistat administration may not only lead to weight loss but also protect against type 2 diabetes in around 37% of cases. Orlistat can induce and maintain weight loss, even in patients with comorbid conditions such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. Recently, orlistat can induce marked weight loss in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In small numbers of individuals especially those with CKD, orlistat administration may precipitate oxalate nephropathy and renal stone disease. The focus of this article is to review current studies showing impact of orlistat on renal function and outcomes.