Orlistat is a weight loss medicine that can help you reach your weight loss goals
in just one year, with the potential to lose 10% or more of your starting weight.
Orlistat is a prescription weight loss medication that helps people with a BMI over 30, or over 28 with weight-related conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, lose weight. It works by preventing the absorption of some dietary fat, rather than burning existing fat or suppressing appetite.
Those with a BMI of over 30 and over 28 with existing weight-related conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure and heart problems. The orlistat 120mg is a prescription-only medicine, you will need to have an assessment to check your suitability before this medicine can be prescribed for you.
Yes, Orlistat is approved for weight loss in the UK.
While not everyone experiences side effects with Orlistat, some people may notice changes in their bowel habits, such as increased wind, oily spotting, or loose stools. These effects are generally mild and temporary, improving as your body gets used to the medication. Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet for more information.
Take one orlistat capsule with water before, during, or up to an hour after each main meal that contains fat (maximum 3 capsules daily). Skip the capsule if you miss a meal or eat a fat-free meal.
Clinical trials have shown that orlistat is effective in aiding weight loss. People taking orlistat lost 50% more weight and were almost twice as likely to achieve a 10% weight loss in a year compared to those who only dieted.
Complete an online consultation which will enable our medical team to assess the suitability of the weight loss medication for you and place your order.
Your consultation will be reviewed by our doctors and once approved if appropriate, you will be able to book your pharmacy check-in and medication collection.
You will have a quick check-in with the pharmacy to have your height, body weight and various other vitals measured and have your medication dispensed.
Orlistat is the generic medicine name whereas Alli and Xenical are branded versions of Orlistat. The active ingredient, Orlistat, is the same in all three medicines.
Orlistat helps you lose weight by preventing your body from absorbing about a third of the fat you eat. It works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down fat so that fat passes out of your body as stools. Orlistat works if it is used with meals that contain fat.
Xenical and the generic version, Orlistat, are oral weight loss treatments. There are injectable weight loss treatments also available. This includes Mounjaro and Wegovy. Visit our injectable weight loss treatments section to find out more.
You can find out more by reading the Patient Information Leaflet.