Why Orlistat's Mechanism Makes It Worth Buying
How Orlistat Works - The Science Behind Fat Blocking
Orlistat works through a targeted mechanism that blocks approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed in your digestive system. Unlike appetite suppressants that affect the brain, orlistat acts locally in your gut by inhibiting lipase enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fat. When these enzymes are blocked, roughly one third of the fat you eat cannot be digested or absorbed into your body - instead, it passes through your system naturally. This proven mechanism means fewer calories from fat are absorbed, supporting weight management when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Is Orlistat and Xenical the Same? Understanding Your Options
Yes, orlistat and Xenical contain identical active ingredients at the same 120mg dose, making them clinically equivalent. The difference lies in cost and branding. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 84 capsules (£29.69 with EDM10), while branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) for the same 4-week supply. Both work through the same fat-blocking mechanism, inhibiting approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. Whether you choose generic orlistat or branded Xenical depends on personal preference and budget - the clinical effect remains identical.
Why the Mechanism Proves Orlistat Works
Orlistat's mechanism provides tangible proof it's working. Unlike treatments that promise invisible effects, orlistat's fat-blocking action produces observable results in your digestive system. The unabsorbed fat must exit your body, which explains the gastrointestinal effects many patients experience. These effects are actually evidence that approximately one third of dietary fat is being blocked from absorption. When you understand this mechanism, you realise why maintaining a lower-fat diet (around 15g fat per meal) is crucial - it minimises side effects while maximising the treatment's effectiveness.
Choosing Between Orlistat, Xenical, and Alli
Understanding how each option works helps you make the right choice. Prescription-strength orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg use the same mechanism to block approximately one third of dietary fat. Alli 60mg uses the same mechanism but at half the dose, blocking a smaller proportion of fat. For maximum effect, most patients choose the 120mg prescription strength. At EverydayMeds, orlistat 120mg offers excellent value at £63.99 for 8 weeks (£57.59 with EDM10), while Xenical costs £86.99 (£78.29 with EDM10). Both require prescription following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Getting Started - From Mechanism to Results
Now you understand how orlistat blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, you can make an informed decision. Our online clinical assessment takes minutes to complete, and if approved, your prescription is included in the price. We stock both generic orlistat and branded Xenical, dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester. With next-day delivery and 10% off every order using code EDM10, there's no reason to delay. Whether you choose orlistat for value or Xenical for the branded option, you'll receive the same proven fat-blocking mechanism that supports weight management alongside your lower-fat diet.
