How Orlistat Works vs Appetite Suppressants
Understanding How Orlistat Functions
Orlistat is not an appetite suppressant that affects your brain or hunger signals. Instead, it works locally in your digestive system by inhibiting lipase enzymes that break down dietary fat. This mechanism blocks approximately one third of the fat you eat from being absorbed into your body. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system, helping reduce calorie intake from dietary fat when used alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Private Prescription Route - Faster Access
Our private prescription service offers faster access to orlistat without NHS waiting lists or GP appointments. Following an online clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber, suitable patients can access orlistat 120mg from £29.69 for 4 weeks (84 capsules) with code EDM10. Xenical 120mg, the branded version containing identical active ingredients, starts from £38.69 for 4 weeks. For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg is available from £26.09 for 4 weeks.
Treatment Options Available
We stock three orlistat options to suit different preferences and budgets. Generic orlistat 120mg offers the most cost-effective prescription-strength treatment. Xenical 120mg provides the same clinical effect as the original branded version by Roche. Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat for those wanting a lower-strength starting point. All products work through the same mechanism of blocking dietary fat absorption, not appetite suppression.
Clinical Assessment Process
Our streamlined process eliminates NHS delays while maintaining the same regulatory standards. Complete our online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and issues a prescription where clinically appropriate. Treatment is typically suitable for adults with BMI 30 or above, or BMI 28 or above with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Managing Treatment Expectations
Unlike appetite suppressants that affect hunger signals, orlistat's effects are directly related to your dietary fat intake. Keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each helps minimise gastrointestinal side effects like oily stools or urgent bowel movements. These effects indicate the medication is working by preventing fat absorption. Most patients find side effects reduce over time as their diet adapts to lower fat intake.
Convenient Delivery Service
All prescriptions are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and delivered discreetly with next-day tracked delivery across the UK. Your prescription is included in the price - no separate consultation fees or GP charges. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, available to both new and returning customers. Longer treatment courses offer better value, with 12-week supplies of generic orlistat available from £86.39.
