Alli -- manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline -- is a less potent form of the prescription drug orlistat. The drug orlistat was marketed under the trade name Xenical by Roche Holding, which had limited success on the market. But, GlaxoSmithKline's expectations for Alli are much higher than those for Xenical. The company is spending millions marketing the drug on television, radio and print ads and expects to net at least $1.5 billion in annual sales.

Since hitting the market in June, Alli's been going strong and the exciting media hype has also created strong interest among consumers. But people should know that alli diet pill is a program; it is not a magic pill. "Studies have shown that those who combined the use of Alli with diet and exercise only lost about three pounds more than people who only dieted and exercised.

Brandi Reed--pharmacist at Target's I-55 North store in Jackson—said,”Alli works by blocking enzymes that digest fat, which prevents the body from absorbing about one-fourth of the amount of fat that is eaten. The undigested fat is then excreted from the body, creating side effects that can include diarrhea and uncontrollable bowel movements.”

Dosage instructions warn that to be effective, Alli must be taken three times a day. The pills are projected to cost $1 to $2 per day, with no insurance coverage since they are over-the-counter medications. Reed said 120 capsules cost $72.99. There's also the option of purchasing 60 capsules for $49.99 or 90 for $59.99.

Most notably, health officials argue that the drug's high cost and limited effectiveness may not be worth its unpleasant side effects. “The serious side effect of Alli besides gastrointestinal upset is interference with the body's absorption of some vitamins. Anyone who takes Alli also should take a daily multi-vitamin”, said Reed. Customers also get additional advice.

On the other hand, "The company states that some of the more unpleasant side effects may be lessened if you stick to a diet containing 15 grams of fat or less," said Reed. "If you follow a low-fat diet along with exercise, chances are you will lose weight and not need the pill in the first place."

Although Alli may be helpful for a small number with no history of weight problems, the drug's advertisements may be misleading for those who don't read the fine print.