What to Expect During Your First Week on Orlistat
Understanding Your First Week on Prescription Orlistat
Your first week on orlistat marks the beginning of a clinically supported weight management journey. This prescription medication works by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, helping to reduce calorie intake when used alongside a lower-fat, reduced-calorie diet. During your initial week, your body adapts to the medication whilst you establish new dietary habits essential for successful weight management.
Orlistat Dosing for Your First Week
Take one 120mg capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat. Our 2-week starter pack (42 capsules, £16.89 or £15.20 with EDM10) provides the perfect introduction to treatment. If a meal contains no fat or you skip a meal, you can omit that dose. Never exceed three capsules per day, and always follow your prescriber's guidance for optimal results during your first week and beyond.
First Week Side Effects and Management
During your first week on orlistat, you may experience gastrointestinal side effects as your digestive system adapts to reduced fat absorption. Common experiences include oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and abdominal discomfort. These effects are directly related to dietary fat intake - keeping meals below 15g fat significantly reduces side effects. Most patients find symptoms improve as they adapt to a lower-fat diet during the first week.
Choosing Between Generic Orlistat and Branded Xenical
Both options contain identical 120mg orlistat and work the same way during your first week. Generic orlistat offers excellent value at £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Many patients start with generic orlistat to assess tolerance before committing to longer treatment periods. Alli 60mg provides a lower-strength option for those preferring gradual introduction.
Diet Guidelines for Your First Week
Success during your first week depends heavily on dietary adaptation. Distribute daily fat intake evenly across three meals, aiming for no more than 15g fat per meal. This approach minimises side effects whilst allowing orlistat to work effectively. Consider keeping a food diary during your first week to track fat intake and identify trigger foods that may cause unwanted effects.
Starting Treatment Through EverydayMeds
Our streamlined process gets you started quickly. Complete our online health questionnaire for review by UK-licensed prescribers. If clinically appropriate, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with next-day delivery available. Use code EDM10 for 10% off your first week supply and all future orders. Professional support continues throughout your weight management journey.
