Orlistat
Brand names: Alli, Xenical|Last verified: 2026-09-12
FAA Pathway: Acceptable — 48-hour initial observation
The FAA lists orlistat (Alli, Xenical) as an acceptable weight loss medication when certification criteria are met. Do not fly for 48 hours after first starting it. It can be combined with one diabetic medication used for weight loss, such as metformin or a GLP-1 agonist, under the FAA's weight loss criteria.
Related Resources
Pilot Tip
Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.
Certification Details
Sources
- FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Weight Loss (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Weight_loss_pharm.pdf)
Last verified: 2026-09-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Orlistat allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Orlistat (Alli, Xenical) to be "Generally Approved" for medical certification purposes. The FAA lists orlistat (Alli, Xenical) as an acceptable weight loss medication when certification criteria are met. Do not fly for 48 hours after first starting it. It can be combined with one diabetic medication used for weight loss, such as metformin or a GLP-1 agonist, under the FAA's weight loss criteria.
What is the FAA status of Orlistat?
Orlistat has a status of "Generally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Acceptable — 48-hour initial observation.
Can I fly while taking Orlistat?
Orlistat is generally compatible with flying. However, you must report it on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8) and ensure you are not experiencing side effects that could impair flight safety. Always consult your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
Important Notice
The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.
The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.