Orlistat

Orlistat is a prescription medicine used for weight loss and weight management in eligible adults alongside a balanced, reduced-calorie diet. It works in your digestive system by blocking some of the enzymes that break down fat from food. This means some of the fat you eat is not absorbed by your body and instead passes naturally through your bowel.

Orlistat works best when combined with a balanced diet that is lower in fat. At PillSuite, treatment is only prescribed following a clinical assessment to make sure it is suitable for you.

Orlistat 120mg is taken with each main meal that contains fat, up to three times a day. Take one capsule immediately before, during or up to one hour after the meal. If you miss a meal, or your meal contains no fat, you should skip that dose. Do not take an extra capsule to make up for a missed dose.

For best results, spread your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates and protein across your main meals and follow the dietary advice provided with your treatment.

What if I forget to take a dose? If you’re still within one hour of eating your meal, take your capsule. If it’s been longer than an hour, skip that dose and take your next one with your next appropriate meal.

Orlistat can support gradual weight loss when used alongside a balanced, reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. How much weight you lose will vary from person to person. Your results can depend on things like your starting weight, diet, activity levels, how consistently you take your treatment and how your body responds to Orlistat.

We’ll review your progress during treatment to make sure Orlistat remains appropriate and beneficial for you.

The most common side effects of Orlistat affect your digestive system and are linked to the way the medicine prevents some dietary fat from being absorbed. These can include:

• Oily or fatty stools
• Needing to open your bowels more urgently or more often
• Wind, sometimes with an oily discharge
• Softer or loose stools
• Stomach discomfort

These effects are more likely after meals that are high in fat. Eating a balanced diet that’s lower in fat can help reduce them.

Can Orlistat cause serious side effects? Serious side effects are less common. If you experience anything severe or unusual, seek medical advice. You can also contact PillSuite if you’re concerned about your treatment.

Orlistat may be suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 28 or above with certain weight-related health conditions or risk factors. BMI is only one part of deciding whether treatment is suitable. We’ll also consider your medical history, current medicines, diet and other relevant circumstances.

Who should not take Orlistat? Orlistat isn’t suitable for everyone. You shouldn’t take it if you have chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis, or if you’re allergic to orlistat or any of the other ingredients in the medicine. Orlistat can also interact with certain medicines, so it’s important to tell us about all medicines and supplements you’re taking during your assessment. We’ll review the information you provide before deciding whether Orlistat is appropriate for you.