Understanding Orlistat Side Effects for Weight Loss
Why Does Orlistat Cause Orange or Oily Stools?
Orange, oily stools occur because orlistat blocks approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed in your digestive system. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, often appearing as orange, oily discharge or fatty stools. This side effect indicates the medication is working as intended - reducing fat absorption to support weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
The orange colour and oily consistency are directly related to the fat content of your meals. Higher fat meals increase the likelihood and severity of these gastrointestinal effects, which is why maintaining a lower-fat diet is essential while taking orlistat.
Managing Orange Stool Side Effects
These gastrointestinal effects can be minimised by keeping dietary fat intake low - approximately 15g fat per meal or around 30% of daily calories from fat. Most patients find side effects reduce over time as they adapt their diet. Wearing dark underwear or using panty liners may help during initial treatment.
If side effects are severe or persistent, consult your healthcare professional. The intensity of these effects varies between individuals and typically decreases as patients establish a consistent lower-fat eating pattern.
Orlistat Treatment Options and Pricing
We offer three prescription weight loss options following clinical assessment. Generic orlistat 120mg provides the most cost-effective option at £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10). Branded Xenical 120mg contains the same active ingredient at £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10). For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg is available at £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10).
All 120mg products require prescription following online clinical assessment by UK-licensed prescribers. Treatment suitability is determined individually, typically for adults with BMI 30 or above, or BMI 28 or above with weight-related health conditions.
Safe and Regulated Online Prescribing
Our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy provides regulated access to prescription weight loss treatment. Following completion of an online health questionnaire, qualified UK prescribers review your information and issue prescriptions where clinically appropriate. All medication is sourced through licensed UK pharmaceutical supply chains and delivered discreetly with next-day tracking.
The online consultation replaces the need for a separate GP appointment, with prescription costs included in the price. This provides faster access to treatment while maintaining the same regulatory standards as any UK pharmacy.
Start Your Weight Loss Treatment
Orange stool side effects, while initially concerning, are a normal response to orlistat's fat-blocking mechanism. These effects can be managed effectively through dietary adjustments and typically improve with continued treatment. Begin your clinical assessment today to determine if prescription weight loss treatment is suitable for you, with 10% off every order using code EDM10.
