Orlistat

Orlistat Capsules

What is Orlistat

• It is used for weight loss in adults, alongside a lower-calorie diet
• It helps weight loss by decreasing the amount of dietary fat absorbed in your intestines. Lipase, an enzyme found in the digestive tract, helps break down dietary fat into smaller parts, so it can be used or stored for energy. This medicine blocks the work of lipase.
• Patients must have a BMI of 30kg/m2 or more, or of at least 27kg/m2 and have a risk factor or a health condition that is affected by weight
• If you have not lost at least 5% of your starting weight after 12 weeks, treatment should stop

Dosage

• The dose is one 120mg capsule three times a day
• Take each capsule with water just before, during or up to one hour after a main meal
• If you miss a meal, or a meal contains no fat, skip that dose

Your supply and price

• Each supply contains 84 capsules of 120mg
• A review will need to be done before the next supply is given
• Use for a maximum of 12 months
• You will need a review before each new supply
• A pack of 84 capsules costs £50

• You will not be charged until you have completed the consultation and the pharmacist has confirmed the service is suitable
• Ask in store for more details

How Orlistat works

Orlistat stops about a third of the fat you eat from being absorbed. Instead, the body passes it out in your stools, so it works best alongside a lower-fat diet.

Our pharmacist will check that this treatment is suitable before you start. They will also explain common side effects, such as oily stools, and how to reduce them. For full details, see the NHS guide to Orlistat, or read about our weight management support.