The Science Behind Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Action
How Orlistat Blocks Fat in Your Digestive System
Orlistat works by targeting lipase enzymes in your gut that normally break down dietary fat for absorption. When you take orlistat with a meal containing fat, it binds to these enzymes and prevents them from doing their job. This means approximately one third of the fat you eat cannot be digested or absorbed - it simply passes through your body naturally. This mechanism works locally in your digestive system, so orlistat isn't absorbed into your bloodstream in significant amounts.
Why This Fat-Blocking Mechanism Works for Weight Loss
By blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, orlistat reduces the calories your body takes in from fat. Since fat contains 9 calories per gram (compared to 4 calories per gram for carbohydrates and protein), this reduction can significantly impact your overall calorie intake. For example, if you eat 60g of fat per day, orlistat may prevent around 20g from being absorbed - that's roughly 180 fewer calories absorbed daily. Our generic orlistat 120mg starts from just £16.89 for a 2-week supply (£15.20 with EDM10 discount).
Orlistat vs Xenical: Identical Fat-Blocking Action
Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at the same dose. This means they work identically to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The key difference is cost - generic orlistat offers the same fat-blocking mechanism for significantly less. A 4-week supply of generic orlistat costs £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Both require the same online prescription consultation with our UK-licensed prescribers.
What Happens to the Blocked Fat
The fat that orlistat blocks from absorption doesn't disappear - it passes through your digestive system and is eliminated naturally. This is why patients may experience oily stools or other gastrointestinal side effects, particularly when eating high-fat meals. These side effects are actually evidence that the medication is working as intended. Keeping your fat intake low (around 15g per meal) significantly reduces these effects while maintaining orlistat's weight management benefits.
Maximising Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Benefits
To get the most from orlistat's mechanism, take one 120mg capsule with each main meal containing fat - typically three times daily. The fat-blocking action works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity. Remember, orlistat doesn't affect carbohydrates, protein, or alcohol calories - only dietary fat. For longer treatment courses, our 12-week supply offers better value at £95.99 for generic orlistat (£86.39 with EDM10) or £128.99 for Xenical (£116.09 with EDM10).
Start Your Fat-Blocking Treatment Today
Now you understand how orlistat's proven mechanism blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, you can make an informed decision about treatment. Our online consultation takes just minutes - a UK-licensed prescriber will assess your suitability and, if appropriate, prescribe orlistat for discreet next-day delivery. All prescriptions include 10% off with code EDM10, and there's no separate GP appointment needed. Complete your consultation now and start blocking dietary fat absorption with clinically-proven orlistat.
