OVER THE COUNTER: The Food and Drug Administration approved the first weight-loss pill to be sold in a reduced-strength version without a prescription.

EXERCISE CAUTION: Officials stressed that the pill, sold as “alli” and intended for people 18 and older, should be used in combination with a diet and exercise program.

FAT-BLOCKER: When taken with meals, the medication blocks the absorption of about one-quarter of any fat consumed.