Orlistat

Take 1 capsule with water 3 times a day immediately before, during, or up to an hour after each main meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

Orlistat only works in the presence of dietary fat. If you miss a main meal or if you have a meal containing no fat, Orlistat does not need to be taken.

Side effects could include pain or discomfort in your stomach, and flatulence (wind) with an oily discharge. You may have a sudden need to open your bowels, and stools may be oily, liquid or fatty in texture. These side effects are more prevalent if you take Orlistat following a fatty meal.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

Orlistat should be taken 3 times a day, usually over 12 weeks, during which time you should aim to lose about 5% of your weight. However, the speed and quality of its effects depend on aspects of your lifestyle.

While Orlistat does help reduce the amount of fat your body absorbs, it is only effective if you make complementary lifestyle changes. These include increased exercise, moderating calorie intake, eating a balanced diet, and reducing alcohol consumption. The results are also dependent on your personal commitment and motivation to losing weight.

Orlistat prevents your body breaking down nearly a 1/3 of the fat that you eat. The undigested fat is not absorbed into your body and is passed out with your stools (faeces).