Why Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Mechanism Makes It Worth Buying
The Science Behind Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Action
Orlistat works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system. These enzymes normally break down dietary fat so it can be absorbed into your body. When orlistat blocks these enzymes, approximately one third of the fat you eat cannot be digested or absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your digestive system and is eliminated from your body.
This mechanism works locally in your gut rather than affecting your brain or central nervous system. Understanding this helps explain why orlistat may cause gastrointestinal side effects - these are actually signs that the medication is working by preventing fat absorption.
Why This Mechanism Supports Weight Management
By blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption, orlistat may help reduce your calorie intake from fat. Since fat contains 9 calories per gram (more than carbohydrates or protein), blocking fat absorption can contribute to creating the calorie deficit needed for weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
The medication works best when your meals contain no more than approximately 15g of fat each. Higher fat meals increase the likelihood of side effects as more unabsorbed fat passes through your system. This encourages better dietary choices, supporting your overall weight management programme.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Same Mechanism, Different Prices
Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. They work through the same fat-blocking mechanism and provide clinically equivalent effects. The key difference is cost - generic orlistat offers significant savings whilst delivering the same therapeutic benefit.
At EverydayMeds, orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst Xenical 120mg costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) for the same period. Both require prescription following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers.
How Alli 60mg Compares
Alli contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. This lower dose blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to 120mg formulations. Alli 60mg costs £28.99 for a 4-week supply (£26.09 with EDM10), providing a lower-strength option for those preferring to start with reduced potency.
Getting Your Prescription Through EverydayMeds
Understanding how orlistat works is the first step - now you can access treatment through our regulated online service. Complete our online health questionnaire, which is reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers. If clinically appropriate, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and delivered discreetly to your address with next-day delivery available.
All orlistat formulations require clinical assessment to ensure suitability. Our prescribers evaluate your BMI, medical history, current medications, and weight-related health factors before approving treatment. This ensures you receive appropriate care whilst accessing convenient private prescription services.
Ready to start your weight management journey? Order today with code EDM10 for 10% off every purchase.
