How Orlistat Works & Why Choose EverydayMeds
What Does Orlistat Do? Understanding the Mechanism
Orlistat is a prescription weight loss medication that works locally in your digestive system by inhibiting lipase enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fat. When you take orlistat capsules with meals, it blocks approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed into your body. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system, helping reduce calorie intake from dietary fat as part of a structured weight management programme.
Unlike stimulant-based weight loss treatments, orlistat doesn't affect your brain or central nervous system. It acts only in your gut, making it a different approach to supporting weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity.
Orlistat Options at EverydayMeds: Compare Your Choices
Our GPhC-registered pharmacy stocks three orlistat options, each suited to different needs and budgets. Generic orlistat 120mg offers the most cost-effective prescription option at £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10). Xenical 120mg provides the same clinical effect as a branded alternative for £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg is available at £28.99 for a 4-week supply (£26.09 with EDM10).
All three products contain the same active ingredient—orlistat—but at different strengths. The 120mg prescription versions (generic orlistat and Xenical) are clinically equivalent, with the main difference being cost. Many patients choose generic orlistat for better value, saving approximately £9 per month compared to Xenical.
Why Choose EverydayMeds for Orlistat Treatment
As a GPhC-registered online pharmacy based in Leicester, EverydayMeds operates under full MHRA regulation, ensuring you receive genuine, quality-assured medication. Our UK-licensed prescribers conduct thorough online clinical assessments, reviewing your medical history, current medications, and suitability for orlistat treatment. This eliminates the need for a separate GP appointment while maintaining the same clinical standards.
We understand that accessing weight management support should be straightforward and discreet. That's why we offer next-day delivery across the UK in plain, secure packaging. Your prescription is included in the price, and with code EDM10, you'll save 10% on every order—whether you're a new or returning customer.
The Clinical Assessment Process
Before any prescription can be issued, one of our qualified UK prescribers will review your online health questionnaire. They'll assess whether orlistat is suitable based on your BMI, medical history, current medications, and individual circumstances. Orlistat may be appropriate for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or those with a BMI of 28 or above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
This clinical assessment ensures you receive safe, appropriate treatment. If our prescriber determines orlistat isn't suitable for you, they'll explain why and may suggest alternative approaches to discuss with your regular healthcare provider.
What to Expect During Treatment
Orlistat works best when combined with a diet where no more than 30% of calories come from fat, spread evenly across three main meals. Most patients take one capsule with each main meal containing fat—up to three capsules daily. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you can skip that dose.
Like all prescription medicines, orlistat may cause side effects, typically gastrointestinal effects related to unabsorbed fat. These effects are more common with high-fat meals and often improve as you adapt to a lower-fat diet. Our patient information includes detailed guidance on managing your diet during treatment to minimise side effects while maximising the medicine's effectiveness.
