What is orlistat used for?

Orlistat (also known as Xenical) 120mg is a prescription weight loss treatment. It is designed to help you lose weight when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

How does orlistat work?

Orlistat helps you lose weight by reducing the amount of fat your body absorbs from food.

Normally, your digestive system breaks down fat so it can be absorbed and stored by the body. Orlistat works by blocking an enzyme called lipase, which is responsible for breaking down fat during digestion.

As a result, some of the fat you eat is not absorbed and instead passes through your body in your stools.

For the best results, orlistat should be used alongside:

• A reduced-calorie diet
• Meals containing no more than 30% fat
• Increased physical activity

Following a lower-fat diet can also help reduce common side effects.

How to take orlistat

Take one orlistat capsule with water:

• Immediately before a meal
• During the meal
• Or within 1 hour after eating

You can take it up to three times a day with your main meals.

If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you should not take orlistat.

Orlistat dosage

Each orlistat (Xenical) capsule contains 120mg of orlistat.

One capsule is intended for one main meal and can be taken up to three times daily.

Alternative weight loss treatments

Our clinical team can prescribe a range of weight loss treatments to support your goals.

Other options include:

• Saxenda
• Wegovy
• Mounjaro

These injectable treatments work differently from orlistat by helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing appetite.

Contact our clinical team to discuss which treatment may be most suitable for you.