| INDICATIONSTotal food replacement for the management of obesity.OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program is intended for use as part of the management of people whao are obese or overweight when there is associated secondary pathology e.g. non-insulin dependent diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, hypothyroidism corrected byreplacement therapy, gynaecological disorders, hyperlipidaemia or where obesity is an impediment to surgery.CONTRAINDICATIONSAcute cerebrovascular or cardiovascular disease, renal disease, hepatic disease, type 1 diabetes, porphyria or overt psychosis.Use in pregnancy – Contraindicated.Use in lactation – Contraindicated.Use in children – Use of very low energy diets is not recommended in persons below 18 years.Use in elderly – Use of very low energy diets is not recommended in persons above 65 years of age.PRECAUTIONSIndividuals with recent myocardial infarction should be referred to a cardiologist to determine suitability for modified fasting.Individuals receiving medication for diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia or those on lithium therapy may require a reduction in dose or withdrawal of treatment whilst undergoing modified fasting. Such individuals should be monitored carefully in the first weeks of an OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program.Individuals with a history of gout, porphyria, or hepatic, renal or gall bladder disease should also be monitored carefully by their healthcare professional. Individuals on lithium therapy require more frequent monitoring of blood lithium levels. Alcohol should not beconsumed when using the OPTIFAST® VLCD™ ProgramMONITORINGAt the commencement of the program, individuals should be checked for normal renal and hepatic function and thereafter regular checks for weight, blood pressure and urinalysis by their doctor.ADVERSE REACTIONSInitial transient effects have been observed: sensitivity to cold, dry skin, temporary rash, temporary hair loss, postural hypotension, fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, muscle cramps, halitosis, irritability, menstrual disturbances. These are generally insufficient in magnitude or duration to warrant cessation of the program but check with your GP.IN some rare cases, numbness and the appearance of previously unsuspected gallstones have been reported. Rapid weight loss occasionally leads to higher serum uric acid levels and might precipitate an acute attack of gout in a predisposed individual. This may beameliorated by ensuring adequate fluid intake and including one teaspoon of vegetable oil with the 2 cups of additional vegetables consumed daily. Always check any adverse symptoms with a doctor.Although the OPTIFAST® VLCD™ Program contains adequate electrolytes for the needs of most individuals, some individuals may become hyponatraemic or hypokalaemic, especially if they are receiving diuretic therapy. In such circumstances, electrolyte supplementsmay be required as directed by your healthcare professional. |
