How Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Action Supports Weight Loss
How Xenical (Orlistat) Works in Your Body
Xenical contains orlistat 120mg, which works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your digestive system. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down dietary fat so it can be absorbed. When orlistat blocks these enzymes, approximately one third of the fat you eat cannot be digested and passes naturally through your body. This reduces the calories absorbed from fat, supporting weight management when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical - Same Mechanism, Better Value
Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients and work through the same fat-blocking mechanism. The key difference is cost - generic orlistat at EverydayMeds costs £29.69 for 4 weeks (with EDM10), compared to £38.69 for branded Xenical. You get the same clinical effect for £9 less per month, making generic orlistat excellent value for long-term weight management.
Why the Fat-Blocking Mechanism Matters
Unlike appetite suppressants that work on the brain, orlistat acts locally in your gut and isn't absorbed into your bloodstream in significant amounts. This targeted approach means it specifically addresses dietary fat intake - approximately one third of fat calories are blocked from absorption. The unabsorbed fat is eliminated naturally, helping create the calorie deficit needed for weight loss alongside your reduced-calorie diet plan.
Alli 60mg - Lower Strength Option
Alli contains orlistat 60mg, exactly half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. While it works through the same fat-blocking mechanism, it's clinically less potent and blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. Alli 60mg (£26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10) may suit those preferring a lower-strength starting point, though prescription-strength orlistat 120mg provides more comprehensive fat blocking.
Getting Your Orlistat Prescription Online
Understanding how orlistat works demonstrates why it's effective - but you need a prescription for the 120mg strength. EverydayMeds' UK-licensed prescribers can assess your suitability through an online consultation, reviewing your BMI, medical history, and weight management goals. If appropriate, your prescription is issued and dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester, with discreet next-day delivery across the UK.
Maximising Orlistat's Fat-Blocking Benefits
To get the most from orlistat's mechanism, keep meals low in fat (approximately 15g fat per meal). This minimises gastrointestinal side effects while allowing the medication to work effectively. Take one 120mg capsule with each main meal containing fat, up to three times daily. The 12-week supply (252 capsules) at £86.39 with EDM10 provides excellent value for sustained weight management support.
