How Does Orlistat Work and What Can You Expect?
How Orlistat Works for Weight Loss
Orlistat works by blocking lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, reducing the calories absorbed from dietary fat. The medication acts locally in the gut rather than affecting your brain, making it different from appetite suppressants.
Clinical studies show orlistat may help support weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity. Individual results vary, and the medication works best when each meal contains no more than approximately 15g of fat to minimise side effects.
Getting Your Orlistat Prescription Online
EverydayMeds makes accessing orlistat straightforward through our regulated online prescription service. Complete a detailed health questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and determines whether orlistat is clinically appropriate for your circumstances.
The prescription is included in our prices - no separate GP fees. Once approved, your medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and dispatched with next-day delivery. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with code EDM10), while branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10).
Choose Your Orlistat Treatment Option
We stock three orlistat options to suit different preferences and budgets. Generic orlistat 120mg provides the most cost-effective choice, containing the same active ingredient as branded alternatives. A 12-week supply costs £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10), offering significant savings for longer treatment periods.
Xenical 120mg is the original branded version manufactured by Roche, clinically identical to generic orlistat but at a premium price. Some patients prefer the branded option for peace of mind. Alli 60mg offers a lower-strength alternative at half the prescription dose, suitable for those wanting a gentler starting point.
What to Expect When Taking Orlistat
Most people experience gastrointestinal side effects initially, particularly if eating high-fat meals. Common effects include oily stools, increased bowel frequency, and urgent bathroom needs. These effects actually indicate the medication is working by blocking fat absorption.
Side effects typically reduce as you adapt to a lower-fat diet. Keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each helps minimise these effects significantly. Take one capsule with each main meal containing fat, up to three times daily. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you can skip that dose.
Who Can Get Orlistat Online?
Orlistat may be suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 28 and above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Your prescriber assesses eligibility based on your individual health circumstances during the online consultation.
Treatment isn't suitable for everyone. You cannot use orlistat if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, or have certain medical conditions like malabsorption syndrome. Always provide complete, accurate information during your consultation to ensure safe prescribing.
