How Does Orlistat Work? Your UK Prescription Options
What Does Orlistat Do in Your Body?
Orlistat works by inhibiting 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, helping reduce calorie intake from dietary sources. Unlike appetite suppressants that affect the brain, orlistat acts locally in your gut and is not significantly absorbed into your bloodstream. When combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet, orlistat may support weight management in adults with a BMI of 28-30+ following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
UK Online Prescription Process
Getting your orlistat prescription through EverydayMeds is straightforward and regulated. Complete our online health questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. Our qualified UK prescribers review your information and issue a prescription where clinically appropriate. Your medication is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and dispatched with next day delivery. The prescription consultation is included in your order price - no separate GP appointment required.
Orlistat vs Xenical vs Alli - Your UK Options
We offer three clinically-proven options for fat absorption blocking. Generic orlistat 120mg provides the most cost-effective choice from £15.20 per 2-week supply with EDM10. Branded Xenical 120mg contains identical active ingredient at the same dose from £19.35 per 2-week supply. Both require prescription following clinical assessment. Alli 60mg offers half the prescription dose from £26.09 per 4-week supply. All three work by the same mechanism - blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption alongside your reduced-calorie eating plan.
Treatment Suitability and Clinical Assessment
Our UK-licensed prescribers assess orlistat suitability based on your BMI, medical history, and weight-related health factors. Adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure may be suitable candidates. The online consultation covers contraindications including pregnancy, breastfeeding, chronic malabsorption, and medication interactions. Your prescriber determines whether orlistat treatment aligns with your individual health circumstances and weight management goals.
Managing Side Effects and Maximising Results
Orlistat's gastrointestinal side effects are directly linked to dietary fat intake - keeping meals to approximately 15g fat each significantly reduces oily stools, anal leakage, and bowel urgency. These effects indicate the medication is working by preventing fat absorption. Most patients find side effects decrease as they adapt to lower-fat eating patterns. Taking a multivitamin at bedtime supports fat-soluble vitamin levels. Your EverydayMeds prescription includes patient guidance for optimising treatment outcomes while minimising digestive disruption.
