Orlistat weight-loss tablets work by blocking the action of lipase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down dietary fat in the body.

This prevents up to 30% of the fat you consume from being absorbed, causing it to pass through the body as waste instead. By reducing fat absorption, orlistat capsules can help to prevent weight gain and support weight loss.

Orlistat is available in capsule form and is taken by swallowing it whole with water, up to three times daily. It should be taken during or within an hour after each main meal that contains fat.

To achieve optimal results, orlistat capsules should be used in conjunction with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and regular physical activity. While this medication reduces the amount of fat absorbed from food, pairing orlistat with a healthy diet and exercise can significantly enhance your likelihood of achieving successful weight loss.

Orlistat weight-loss capsules should be taken with a meal that contains fat or within an hour after eating. If your meal is low in fat or consists of a small snack, you don't need to take an orlistat capsule, as it will be ineffective and may cause unwanted side effects.

To be prescribed weight-loss medication such as orlistat, you'll need to meet certain criteria.

We can only prescribe orlistat tablets if you have a BMI of 30 and over – or 28 and over if you have any other weight-related conditions or risk factors such as high blood pressure.

You will not be suitable to take orlistat tablets if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or planning on getting pregnant.

Our experienced healthcare professionals will determine if orlistat or any of the other weight-loss medications we offer are suitable for you to take in your initial consultation.

To see the best results possible when taking orlistat tablets to lose weight, you should:

• Take the orlistat tablets as prescribed by the pharmacist
• Eat a healthy, low-fat diet, with no more than 30% of your daily calories coming from fat
• Maintain a regular exercise routine, aiming for around 150 minutes of exercise per week

Some patients may experience side effects when taking orlistat. They typically appear during the first few weeks of treatment but some may continue throughout your use of the medication.

Common side effects include:

Some more serious side effects that patients may experience include:

If you have any concerns about any of the above side effects you may be experiencing during your treatment, do not hesitate to contact one of our team or your GP.

You should always take your orlistat weight-loss capsules with food. This is because the orlistat won't work unless eaten with a fatty meal as it needs to bind to the fat in your food to be effective.

At Well Pharmacy, we offer two additional types of weight loss medication. Wegovy and Mounjaro, weekly self-injectable options, are both available as part of our comprehensive weight-management services.

If our specialists determine that weight-loss medication isn't suitable for you, or if you prefer exploring alternative methods, our pharmacists are here to provide expert advice tailored to your needs. From guidance on exercise tips to advice on eating healthier, we're committed to supporting you in achieving your weight-loss goals.

Visit our handy Health Advice hub to learn more.