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We have just received information that GlaxoSmithKline has applied to the European Medicines Agency for a low dose of Orlistat to be sold over the counter throughout the EU.  Orlistat is the active ingredient in Xenical which is already available on prescription throughout the EU at a dose of 120 mg per capsule.  The new low dose of 60 mg will be marketed as Alli.  Alli is already marketed as an over the counter drug in the US and GSK claims that it can help slimmers lose twice as much weight as dieting alone.

The application has been criticised by some healthcare professionals as being irresponsible as it gives the impression that obesity has a quick fix.  There is also concern that the lack of professional advice from a doctor could be detrimental to the patient's health.

It will be some months before we know if the application has been approved and even then it is not certain that GSK will market the product throughout Europe.  We will bring you more news as it becomes available.