Understanding the Mechanism Before You Buy
How Orlistat Blocks Fat Absorption
Orlistat works through a precise mechanism that targets lipase enzymes in your digestive system. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down dietary fat so it can be absorbed into your body. When you take orlistat 120mg capsules with meals, the medication inhibits approximately one third of these lipase enzymes. This means roughly one third of the fat you consume passes through your body undigested and is eliminated naturally. The remaining two thirds of dietary fat is still processed normally, ensuring your body receives essential fatty acids whilst reducing overall calorie absorption from fat.
Does Orlistat Work on Existing Body Fat?
Orlistat does not directly target or "burn" existing body fat stored in your tissues. Instead, it works by preventing new dietary fat from being absorbed, which can create a calorie deficit that may lead to weight loss over time. When combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity, this mechanism can support your body in using stored fat for energy. Generic orlistat 120mg (£29.69 for 4 weeks with EDM10) and branded Xenical (£38.69 for 4 weeks with EDM10) work through identical mechanisms - the key difference is price, not clinical effect.
Why This Mechanism Matters for Your Purchase Decision
Understanding how orlistat works helps explain why it's prescribed alongside dietary changes rather than as a standalone solution. The medication's fat-blocking action works best when meals contain moderate amounts of fat - typically no more than 15g per meal. This is why higher-fat meals can increase gastrointestinal side effects, as more unabsorbed fat passes through your system. The mechanism also explains why orlistat requires a prescription at 120mg strength - healthcare professionals need to assess whether this approach suits your individual weight management goals and medical history.
Comparing Your Treatment Options
Both generic orlistat and branded Xenical contain 120mg of the same active ingredient and block approximately one third of dietary fat through identical mechanisms. Generic orlistat offers significant savings - you'll pay £86.39 for 12 weeks compared to £116.09 for branded Xenical (both with EDM10 code). Alli 60mg works through the same mechanism but at half the dose, blocking a smaller proportion of dietary fat. Your choice depends on your budget preferences and whether you prefer branded or generic medication - the fat-blocking mechanism remains consistent across all options.
Next Steps: Order Your Treatment Today
Now you understand exactly how orlistat works to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, you can make an informed treatment choice. Complete our online clinical assessment to have a UK-licensed prescriber review your suitability for either generic orlistat or branded Xenical. Following prescriber approval, your medication will be dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your address with next day delivery available. Use code EDM10 to save 10% on every order, making generic orlistat just £15.20 for your first 2-week supply.
