Ready to Start? Here's How Orlistat Blocks Fat
How Orlistat Blocks Fat Absorption
Orlistat works through a simple yet effective mechanism in your digestive system. The medication inhibits lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat in your gut. When these enzymes are blocked, approximately one third of the fat you eat cannot be digested or absorbed into your body. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system and is excreted.
Unlike appetite suppressants that work on the brain, orlistat acts locally in your gut and isn't significantly absorbed into your bloodstream. This targeted action makes it an effective fat blocker for weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Why This Mechanism Makes Orlistat Effective
The fat-blocking action of orlistat provides measurable calorie reduction. Since fat contains 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram for carbohydrates and protein, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption can significantly reduce your daily calorie intake. This creates the calorie deficit needed for sustainable weight loss.
At EverydayMeds, we stock both generic orlistat 120mg from £32.99 per month (£29.69 with EDM10) and branded Xenical 120mg from £42.99 per month (£38.69 with EDM10). Both contain identical active ingredients and work through the same proven mechanism.
What Happens to the Blocked Fat?
The fat that orlistat prevents from being absorbed doesn't disappear - it passes through your body naturally. This is why maintaining a lower-fat diet is essential while taking orlistat. High-fat meals can lead to gastrointestinal side effects as more unabsorbed fat passes through your system.
Most patients find that keeping fat intake to approximately 15g per meal minimises side effects while allowing orlistat's fat-blocking mechanism to work effectively. The medication works best when your daily fat intake is spread evenly across three main meals.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Same Mechanism, Different Prices
Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg work through identical mechanisms - they're the same medication with the same fat-blocking action. Generic orlistat offers significant savings: a 12-week supply costs £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10) compared to £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10) for branded Xenical.
For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg uses the same mechanism at half the dose. While less potent at blocking fat absorption, it may cause milder side effects for some patients.
Start Your Treatment Today
Now you understand how orlistat's proven fat-blocking mechanism works, you can make an informed treatment decision. Complete our online clinical assessment to see if orlistat is suitable for you. Our UK-licensed prescribers will review your information and, if appropriate, issue a prescription for same-day dispatch.
All treatments include free next-day delivery with discreet packaging. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order. Whether you choose generic orlistat for value or branded Xenical, you'll receive the same effective fat-blocking medication dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester.
