How to Take Orlistat for Best Results
When to Take Orlistat 120mg Capsules
Take one orlistat 120mg capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat. The optimal timing is immediately before eating, during your meal, or up to one hour after finishing. If you skip a meal or eat a meal with no fat content, you can skip that dose. Never exceed three capsules per day. This dosing schedule applies to both generic orlistat 120mg (from £15.20 for 42 capsules with EDM10) and branded Xenical 120mg (from £19.35 for 42 capsules with EDM10).
Orlistat vs Xenical - Same Effect, Different Price
Generic orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. The clinical effect is the same - both may help reduce dietary fat absorption by approximately one third. Choose generic orlistat to save approximately £10 per month compared to Xenical. A 4-week supply of orlistat costs £29.69 with EDM10, while Xenical costs £38.69. Both require the same clinical assessment and prescription from a UK-licensed healthcare professional.
Diet Guidelines While Taking Orlistat
Keep fat intake to approximately 15g per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects. Spread your daily fat intake evenly across three main meals. High-fat meals significantly increase the likelihood of oily stools, urgent bowel movements, and oily discharge. A reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet is essential - orlistat works alongside dietary changes, not instead of them. Take a daily multivitamin at bedtime (at least 2 hours after your last orlistat dose) as the medication may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
How Long Can You Take Orlistat?
Treatment duration varies based on individual response and prescriber guidance. Our pack sizes support different treatment lengths: 42 capsules (2 weeks), 84 capsules (4 weeks), 168 capsules (8 weeks), and 252 capsules (12 weeks). The 12-week supply offers best value at £86.39 with EDM10 for generic orlistat. Your prescriber will monitor progress and determine appropriate treatment duration during follow-up assessments.
Ordering Your Prescription Online
Complete our online clinical assessment reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. If suitable, your prescription is issued and dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester. Choose from orlistat 120mg (most cost-effective), Xenical 120mg (branded option), or Alli 60mg (lower strength). Apply code EDM10 at checkout for 10% off every order. Next day tracked delivery included across the UK in discreet packaging.
