Cetilistat is primarily used as an anti-obesity agent. It works by inhibiting pancreatic lipase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down dietary fats in the intestine. By blocking this enzyme, cetilistat reduces fat absorption, leading to a decrease in calorie intake. This mechanism supports weight management in individuals with overweight or obesity, especially when combined with a reduced-calorie diet. It is considered a pharmacological option for long-term weight control and may help improve related metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Unlike some other weight-loss drugs, cetilistat acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract with minimal systemic absorption, which may result in fewer side effects related to central nervous system activity.