Why Understanding Fat Blocking Drives Better Results
How Orlistat Blocks Dietary Fat Absorption
Orlistat works through a proven mechanism that inhibits lipase enzymes in your digestive system. These enzymes normally break down dietary fat so your body can absorb it. When you take orlistat 120mg with meals, it blocks approximately one third of the fat you eat from being digested and absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, reducing the calories you absorb from dietary fat. Generic orlistat 120mg starts from £29.69 for a 4-week supply with EDM10, while branded Xenical costs £38.69. Both contain identical active ingredients and block the same proportion of fat.
The Science Behind Fat Blocking
Understanding orlistat's mechanism helps explain why it's prescribed for weight management. By blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, orlistat can reduce calorie intake when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet. The medication acts locally in your gut rather than being absorbed into your bloodstream, targeting fat digestion directly. This targeted action is why side effects are primarily gastrointestinal and directly related to the amount of fat in your meals. Lower-fat meals mean fewer side effects and better tolerability while maintaining the fat-blocking effect.
Orlistat Dosing for Optimal Fat Blocking
Take one 120mg capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat, or up to one hour after eating. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you can skip that dose. This dosing schedule ensures orlistat is present when you need fat-blocking action most. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £32.99, reduced to £29.69 with code EDM10. For longer treatment, 12-week supplies (252 capsules) offer better value at £86.39 with our discount code, saving you money while maintaining consistent fat-blocking benefits.
Diet Strategy When Taking Orlistat
Knowing how orlistat blocks approximately one third of dietary fat helps you plan meals effectively. Keep each meal to around 15g fat or less to minimise side effects while maintaining the weight management benefits. Spread your daily fat intake evenly across three main meals rather than having one high-fat meal. This approach optimises orlistat's fat-blocking mechanism while reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. Remember, orlistat only affects fat absorption - it doesn't block carbohydrates or protein calories.
Choosing Between Orlistat, Xenical and Alli
All three products use the same fat-blocking mechanism, but at different strengths. Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg are prescription-only medicines that block approximately one third of dietary fat. Generic orlistat offers identical fat-blocking power at lower cost - £57.59 for 8 weeks versus £78.29 for branded Xenical (both with EDM10). Alli 60mg provides half the dose, blocking a smaller proportion of fat with typically milder side effects. Choose based on your budget and preferred starting strength, knowing all work through the same proven fat-blocking mechanism.
Start Your Fat-Blocking Treatment Today
Now you understand how orlistat blocks approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, you can make an informed treatment choice. Complete our online clinical assessment to have your suitability reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. Once approved, we'll dispense and dispatch your chosen orlistat product with next-day delivery. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order - new and returning customers welcome. Start blocking unwanted fat absorption today through our GPhC-registered pharmacy service.
