Understanding Orlistat Side Effects and Treatment Options
Can Orlistat Make You Feel Sick?
Yes, orlistat can cause nausea in some patients. Feeling sick is listed as a common side effect, potentially affecting up to 1 in 10 people taking this prescription weight loss medication. The nausea typically occurs alongside other gastrointestinal effects as orlistat blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption in your digestive system.
Why Does Orlistat Cause Nausea?
Orlistat works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut, preventing the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. This mechanism can cause digestive disturbance, including nausea, particularly when combined with higher-fat meals. The unabsorbed fat passes through your system, which may trigger feelings of sickness alongside other gut-related side effects like oily stools and abdominal discomfort.
Managing Nausea While Taking Orlistat
You can significantly reduce nausea by following a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet with approximately 15g fat per meal. This dietary approach minimises the amount of unabsorbed fat in your system, reducing the likelihood of feeling sick. Taking orlistat with each main meal as prescribed, rather than on an empty stomach, may also help manage nausea symptoms.
UK Prescription Orlistat Pricing
EverydayMeds offers competitive pricing for prescription orlistat 120mg: 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99, reduced to £29.69 with discount code EDM10. Our 8-week supply (168 capsules) is £63.99, down to £57.59 with EDM10. For those preferring branded medication, Xenical 120mg is available from £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10). All prices include the prescription following online clinical assessment.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While nausea can be a normal side effect, contact your prescriber if you experience severe or persistent sickness that prevents you from eating or taking the medication properly. Seek immediate medical attention if nausea occurs with severe abdominal pain, yellowing of skin or eyes, or dark urine, as these could indicate rare but serious complications.
Alternative Strengths and Options
If nausea is problematic with orlistat 120mg, discuss alternatives with your prescriber. Alli 60mg contains half the dose and may cause milder side effects, though it's also less potent for weight management. Our pharmacy stocks Alli 60mg from £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10). Your prescriber can advise whether a lower strength might be more suitable for your circumstances.
Order Orlistat Online Today
Start your weight management journey with prescription orlistat from EverydayMeds. Our online clinical assessment takes minutes to complete, with same-day prescriber review where appropriate. Choose from generic orlistat 120mg, branded Xenical, or lower-strength Alli 60mg. All orders benefit from 10% discount with code EDM10, GPhC-registered dispensing, and discreet next-day delivery across the UK.
