Products
Litramine is commercially available in the form of tablets (Fatcontrol Biomed). Litramine is not approved as a drug, but as a medical device.
Structure and properties
Litramine is a fiber complex of soluble and non-soluble fibers extracted from the leaves of the prickly pear cactus.
Effects
The insoluble Litramine fibers bind lipids from food in the stomach, and the soluble fibers form a gel with water that surrounds this fat-fiber complex. The fat is therefore not absorbed but excreted in the stool. Litramine lowers cholesterol levels and increases satiety by delaying the feeling of hunger. Prickly pear has shown antidiabetic effects in some studies.
Indications for use
Litramine is used for weight control and prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity.
Dosage
According to the package insert. The tablets are taken immediately after main meals with plenty of liquid.
Contraindications
Litramine should not be used in children under 12 years of age, during pregnancy or lactation, or with a BMI below 18.5. It should not be used regularly in cases of kidney disease or kidney stones due to the oxalic acid content, and with caution in cases of diabetes mellitus due to its effect on blood glucose levels.
Interactions
Litramine has the potential to bind drugs, inhibit their absorption, and thus attenuate their effects. Oral contraceptives, fat-soluble drugs, and vitamin preparations should therefore be taken 2 hours apart, according to the Instructions for Use.
Adverse effects
No information is available in the literature on possible adverse effects. According to the manufacturer, there are no significant side effects. From our point of view, it is possible that digestive problems could occur if fats enter the intestine (cf. Orlistat, Chitosan). Unlike chitosan, no allergic reactions have been documented because it is not derived from shellfish.
