Why Understanding the Mechanism Matters
How Orlistat 120mg Blocks Fat Absorption
Orlistat 120mg capsules work through a proven mechanism that targets lipase enzymes in your digestive system. These enzymes normally break down dietary fat so it can be absorbed into your body. When you take orlistat with meals, it inhibits approximately one third of these lipase enzymes, preventing the corresponding fat from being digested and absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your system, reducing the calories your body stores.
The Science Behind Fat Blocking
Unlike appetite suppressants that work on the brain, orlistat acts locally in your gut. It's not significantly absorbed into your bloodstream, making it a targeted approach to weight management. Each 120mg capsule taken with meals containing fat can block approximately one third of that meal's fat content. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 84 capsules (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) - both containing identical active ingredients.
Why This Mechanism Supports Weight Loss
By preventing approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, orlistat effectively reduces your calorie intake without requiring you to eliminate all fats from your diet. Fat contains 9 calories per gram - more than double that of carbohydrates or protein. When orlistat blocks fat absorption, those calories cannot contribute to weight gain. This mechanism works best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet where you limit fat intake to approximately 15g per meal.
Real-World Application of Fat Blocking
Understanding how orlistat works helps optimise your treatment. Taking one capsule three times daily with main meals ensures consistent fat blocking throughout the day. If you eat a meal with minimal fat, you can skip that dose since there's little fat to block. Our 168-capsule packs (£63.99, or £57.59 with EDM10) provide 8 weeks of treatment, allowing you to establish this routine effectively.
Comparing Your Orlistat Options
Whether you choose generic orlistat 120mg or branded Xenical 120mg, the fat-blocking mechanism remains identical. Both block approximately one third of dietary fat through the same lipase inhibition process. Generic orlistat offers significant savings - a 12-week supply costs £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10). Alli 60mg provides the same mechanism at half the dose for those preferring a gentler starting point.
Getting Started with Orlistat
Now you understand how orlistat's fat-blocking mechanism supports weight management, you can make an informed treatment decision. Complete our online clinical assessment where a UK-licensed prescriber will review your suitability for orlistat 120mg capsules. Treatment is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next day delivery. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Start your assessment today and begin blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption.
