Orlistat 120mg

£34.99

Orlistat (120 mg capsules) is a prescription-only lipase inhibitor for weight loss, blocking approximately 30% of dietary fat absorption when taken with main meals. It supports long-term weight management alongside diet and exercise, requiring vitamin supplementation.
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Orlistat 120mg Capsules help adults lose weight by reducing fat absorption from meals. They are typically prescribed to individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 28 if weight-related health risks are present, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. This medication works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and regular physical activity.

Each capsule contains 120mg of Orlistat, a medicine known as a lipase inhibitor. When taken with a meal that contains fat, it prevents around 30% of the fat from being digested and absorbed. Instead, the undigested fat passes naturally through the bowel.

How It Works

Orlistat blocks the digestive enzymes that break down fat in your food. Without these enzymes, fat molecules remain too large to be absorbed by the body. This fat is then eliminated through your stool. As a result, your body absorbs fewer calories, which supports gradual and effective weight loss.

Why Choose Orlistat

Orlistat provides clinically proven support for those who find it difficult to lose weight through diet alone. Unlike appetite suppressants, it works locally in the gut without affecting your brain or nervous system. Most patients appreciate its straightforward method of action and prefer the control it offers over dietary fat.

Doctors often recommend Orlistat as part of a supervised weight management plan. When used correctly, it can improve other health markers, including blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Important Note

Orlistat 120mg is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM) in the UK.
A licensed healthcare professional must assess your suitability and supervise your treatment. Always follow the directions provided, and report any side effects to your prescriber or pharmacist.

Directions

  • Always follow the patient information leaflet before use.

    • Dosage: One 120 mg capsule taken with water during or up to one hour after each fat‑containing main meal; not exceeding three capsules daily.

    • How to take: Swallow whole; if a meal is skipped or contains no fat, skip that dose.

    • Safety reminders: Maintain a balanced low‑fat diet and exercise regularly. Ensure adequate intake of fat‑soluble vitamins, either as a multivitamin or separate supplement taken at bedtime.

    • Storage: Store below 25 °C in original packaging; protect from moisture and heat; keep out of reach of children; return any unused capsules to pharmacy.

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient: Orlistat 120 mg per capsule

  • Inactive Ingredients: May include microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and magnesium stearate. Refer to product packaging for full details and allergen warnings.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Oily or fatty stools, frequent bowel movements, and flatulence

  • Urgent or loose bowel motions

Serious Side Effects:

  • Liver injury signs (dark urine, yellow skin/eyes)

  • Severe rectal bleeding or persistent abdominal pain

If you experience any symptoms, consult your GP or healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Warnings

  • Contraindications: Chronic malabsorption syndrome, cholestasis, allergy to orlistat

  • Cautions: Pancreatitis, gallstones, kidney disease, dietary fat intolerance

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Drug Interactions: May reduce absorption of ciclosporin, levothyroxine, fat‑soluble vitamins, and some antiepileptic drugs—monitor levels if used concurrently

  • It blocks enzymes that digest fat, so a portion of fat passes through the body undigested.
  • Orlistat 120mg is used to help people lose weight by blocking some of the fat absorbed from meals.
  • Yes, Orlistat 120mg is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
  • Only take it with meals that contain fat. Skip a dose if your meal has no fat.
  • No — it must be used alongside a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet to be effective.