Skip to product information
1 of 2

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Orlistat

Orlistat

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Blocks one third of dietary fat from being absorbed
  • ✔️ Clinically proven to support meaningful weight loss
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults with a BMI of 28 or above
  • ✔️ Works with every main meal for consistent fat reduction
  • ✔️ Only licensed OTC weight loss capsule available in the UK

Price Checker

Regular price £32.00
Sale price £32.00
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

Is Orlistat Weight Loss Right for You?

 

Losing weight is rarely straightforward. Even with the best intentions around diet and exercise, many people find progress frustratingly slow. That is where orlistat weight loss capsules can make a genuine difference. Orlistat 120mg is the only licensed over-the-counter weight loss medicine available in the UK, and it has been used clinically for decades to help adults manage their weight alongside a reduced-calorie diet. Available from Cured Pharmacy for £32.00, it offers a medically recognised option for those who meet the eligibility criteria. If you are also managing other aspects of your health, you might find our vitamins and supplements range a useful complement to a structured weight management plan.

Orlistat is suitable for adults aged 18 and over with a body mass index (BMI) of 28 kg/m² or above. It is not a quick fix — it works best when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and regular physical activity. The NHS recommends that weight loss medicines should always be used as part of a broader lifestyle programme, not as a standalone solution.

 

How Does Orlistat Work in the Body?

 

Orlistat works by targeting the digestive process directly. Rather than suppressing appetite or speeding up metabolism, it acts locally in the gut to reduce how much fat your body absorbs from food.

  • Orlistat inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipases — the enzymes your body uses to break down dietary fat.
  • When these enzymes are blocked, roughly one third of the fat you consume cannot be digested.
  • That undigested fat passes through the intestine and is excreted in your stools rather than being stored.
  • This creates a meaningful calorie deficit over time, supporting gradual, sustained weight loss.

It is worth noting that orlistat only works on fat — it has no effect on carbohydrates or protein. This is why following a low-fat diet while taking it is so important, both to maximise results and to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects.

 

Who Is Orlistat Suitable For?

 

Not everyone is a candidate for orlistat, and it is important to be honest about your health history before starting. It is designed for adults who are overweight or obese and who have already made genuine efforts to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

  • Adults aged 18 or over with a BMI of 28 kg/m² or above
  • People who have been unable to achieve sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone
  • Those without contraindicated medical conditions (see Section 2 for full details)
  • Individuals who are committed to following a reduced-fat, calorie-controlled diet throughout treatment

It is not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone with chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis. Always complete the health questionnaire honestly when ordering online.

 

How Does Orlistat Compare to Other Weight Loss Options?

 

Feature Orlistat 120mg Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Availability OTC and prescription Prescription only
Mechanism Blocks fat absorption in gut GLP-1 receptor agonist; reduces appetite
Route Oral capsule Weekly subcutaneous injection
Minimum BMI 28 kg/m² 30 kg/m² (or 27 with comorbidity)

 

How Should You Store Orlistat Capsules?

 

Store orlistat capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them in their original packaging and out of reach of children. Do not use capsules past the expiry date printed on the pack. If you are managing multiple health conditions and taking several medicines, it is worth speaking to your pharmacist — particularly if you are also browsing our weight loss range for complementary products.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Orlistat specifications
Treatment category Weight management
Mechanism of action Pancreatic and gastric lipase inhibitor
Effective When combined with a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet
Suitable for Adults aged 18+ with BMI ≥28 kg/m²
Active ingredient Orlistat 120mg
Strengths 120mg
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Lipase inhibitor
Preparation Hard capsule
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Orlistat

 

What Is Orlistat and What Is It Used For?

 

Orlistat 120mg is a lipase inhibitor used to treat obesity and overweight in adults. It is taken orally with meals and works within the digestive tract to reduce fat absorption. In the UK, it is available both as a pharmacy (P) medicine without a prescription and as a prescription-only medicine (POM) for longer-term use under medical supervision. The NHS recommends it as part of a structured weight management programme that includes dietary changes and increased physical activity.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Orlistat?

 

Before starting orlistat, it is essential to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are several conditions and circumstances where it should not be used.

Do not take orlistat if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have chronic malabsorption syndrome
  • Have cholestasis (a liver condition affecting bile flow)
  • Are allergic to orlistat or any of the capsule ingredients
  • Are under 18 years of age

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you:

  • Have kidney stones or a history of hyperoxaluria
  • Have diabetes — your blood glucose medicines may need adjusting as you lose weight
  • Have thyroid disease
  • Are taking any of the medicines listed below

Known drug interactions — orlistat may affect the absorption or effectiveness of:

  • Ciclosporin (take at least 3 hours apart from orlistat)
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants (INR should be monitored)
  • Antiepileptic medicines such as valproate and lamotrigine
  • Levothyroxine (thyroid hormone replacement)
  • Antiretroviral medicines used in HIV treatment
  • Amiodarone

Because orlistat reduces fat absorption, it can also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Taking a daily multivitamin supplement at bedtime — at least 2 hours after your last orlistat dose — is recommended. You can explore suitable options in our vitamins and supplements collection.

 

How Should You Use Orlistat?

 

  1. Take one 120mg capsule with water immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal.
  2. Do not take more than three capsules per day.
  3. If you miss a meal or your meal contains no fat, skip that dose entirely.
  4. Follow a nutritionally balanced, calorie-controlled diet that provides no more than 30% of calories from fat.
  5. Spread your daily fat intake evenly across your three main meals.
  6. Take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime to compensate for reduced fat-soluble vitamin absorption.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Weight loss (BMI ≥28) Adults 18+ 120mg Up to 3 times daily with meals
Weight maintenance Adults 18+ 120mg Up to 3 times daily with meals
Children / under 18 Under 18 Not recommended Not applicable

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Orlistat?

 

Side effects are most common in the first few weeks of treatment and are closely linked to fat intake. Eating a low-fat diet significantly reduces their likelihood and severity. If you experience persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms, speak to your pharmacist. You may also find it helpful to browse our diarrhoea range if loose stools become a concern during the early stages of treatment.

Common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 10 people):

  • Oily or fatty stools (steatorrhoea)
  • Oily spotting on underwear
  • Urgent or frequent need to open bowels
  • Flatulence with oily discharge
  • Soft or liquid stools
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort

Less common side effects:

  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Hypoglycaemia in people with type 2 diabetes
  • Rectal pain or discomfort
  • Tooth or gum disorders
  • Fatigue

Rare but serious side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), and kidney stones. Stop taking orlistat and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these.

 

How Should You Store Orlistat?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Store in the original packaging
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused capsules to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy orlistat online in the UK?

You can buy orlistat 120mg capsules online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. You will need to complete a short health questionnaire before purchase to confirm you meet the eligibility criteria. Once approved, your order is dispatched promptly and discreetly. Browse our full weight loss range for additional options.

How does orlistat work in the body?

Orlistat inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipases — the enzymes your digestive system uses to break down dietary fat. When these enzymes are blocked, roughly one third of the fat you eat cannot be absorbed and is instead excreted in your stools. This creates a sustained calorie deficit that supports gradual weight loss over time.

How do I take orlistat step by step?

Take one 120mg capsule immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal. Do not take more than three capsules in a single day. If you skip a meal or your meal contains no fat, skip that dose — there is no benefit to taking it without dietary fat present.

What is the best time to take orlistat?

Orlistat should be taken in close proximity to each main meal — either just before, during, or within one hour of finishing eating. Timing it around meals that contain fat is what makes it effective. Taking it at consistent mealtimes each day helps build a reliable routine.

How do I manage the side effects of orlistat?

The most effective way to manage side effects is to follow a low-fat diet — keeping fat intake to no more than 30% of total daily calories. Spreading fat evenly across meals rather than eating it all in one sitting also helps. Side effects typically reduce in frequency and severity as your body adjusts and your diet improves.

Who is eligible to take orlistat capsules?

Orlistat is suitable for adults aged 18 and over with a BMI of 28 kg/m² or above who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis, or anyone under 18. A health questionnaire is required before purchase.

What happens if I miss a dose of orlistat?

If you miss a dose, simply skip it and take your next capsule with your next main meal as usual. Do not take a double dose to compensate. Missing an occasional dose is unlikely to significantly affect your overall progress, provided you continue following your diet plan.

What are the alternatives to orlistat for weight loss in the UK?

Prescription-only alternatives include GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda), which work by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying. Orlistat remains the only licensed OTC weight loss medicine available in the UK. Lifestyle interventions — including dietary changes, increased activity, and behavioural support — remain the foundation of any weight management plan.

How long can you stay on orlistat?

Without a prescription, orlistat can be used for up to 12 weeks. If you have not lost at least 5% of your body weight after 12 weeks, treatment should be reviewed with your GP. For longer-term use beyond 12 weeks, a prescription is required and your doctor will assess whether continued treatment is appropriate.

Does orlistat affect vitamin absorption?

Yes — because orlistat reduces fat absorption, it can also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. It is recommended that you take a daily multivitamin supplement at bedtime, at least two hours after your last orlistat dose. This helps ensure you maintain adequate vitamin levels throughout treatment. Our vitamins and supplements range includes suitable options.

Can I take orlistat if I have type 2 diabetes?

Orlistat can be used by people with type 2 diabetes, but you should speak to your GP or diabetes team before starting. As you lose weight, your blood glucose levels may improve, which could mean your diabetes medicines need adjusting. Monitoring blood glucose more closely during the early weeks of treatment is advisable.

Will orlistat interact with my other medicines?

Orlistat can interact with several medicines, including ciclosporin, warfarin, antiepileptics (such as valproate and lamotrigine), levothyroxine, antiretrovirals, and amiodarone. If you take any of these, speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting orlistat. Some interactions can be managed by spacing doses apart, but medical guidance is essential.

How much weight can I expect to lose with orlistat?

Clinical studies show that people taking orlistat alongside a calorie-controlled diet lose more weight than those following diet alone. Results vary between individuals, but a loss of 5–10% of body weight over 6–12 months is a realistic and clinically meaningful target. Consistent adherence to both the medicine and dietary guidance is key to achieving results.

What are the latest studies on orlistat?

Orlistat has been extensively studied since its introduction in the late 1990s. Evidence consistently supports its efficacy in producing modest but clinically significant weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes. More recent research has also explored its potential role in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals, though it is not licensed for this indication in the UK.

Is orlistat safe to use long term?

Orlistat has a well-established long-term safety profile when used as directed under medical supervision. The main considerations with prolonged use are ensuring adequate fat-soluble vitamin intake and monitoring for any changes in liver function, though serious liver events are rare. Long-term use beyond 12 weeks requires a prescription and regular review by your GP.

How Should You Use Orlistat?

Orlistat capsules are taken orally with water and should always be used alongside a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet. Taking the capsule without adjusting your diet will not produce meaningful results and is likely to increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Consistency is key — try to take each dose at a similar time each day, tied to your regular mealtimes.

What Is the Correct Dose of Orlistat?

The standard dose for adults is one 120mg capsule taken up to three times daily, once with each main meal. Do not exceed three capsules per day under any circumstances. If a meal is skipped or contains no fat, that dose should be omitted entirely — taking orlistat without dietary fat present offers no benefit and may cause unnecessary discomfort.

When Is the Best Time to Use Orlistat?

Orlistat is most effective when taken in direct relation to meals containing fat. The ideal window is immediately before eating, during the meal, or within one hour of finishing. Taking it too long after a meal means the fat may already have begun to be absorbed, reducing the medicine's effectiveness. Building the habit of taking your capsule at the same time as sitting down to eat is the simplest way to stay consistent.

Spacing your three daily doses across breakfast, lunch, and dinner works well for most people. If you only eat two main meals in a day, you would take a maximum of two capsules on that day.

How Long Can You Use Orlistat For?

Without a prescription, orlistat can be used for a maximum of 12 consecutive weeks. If you have not lost at least 5% of your starting body weight after 12 weeks of treatment, you should stop taking it and speak to your GP about alternative approaches. Continuing beyond 12 weeks requires a prescription, and your doctor will review your progress and overall health before prescribing further.

Long-term use is possible under medical supervision, and some people take orlistat for up to two years or more as part of an ongoing weight management plan. Regular check-ins with your GP or pharmacist are important to monitor progress and check for any emerging concerns.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

How Should You Use Orlistat?

Orlistat capsules are taken orally with water and should always be used alongside a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet. Taking the capsule without adjusting your diet will not produce meaningful results and is likely to increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Consistency is key — try to take each dose at a similar time each day, tied to your regular mealtimes.

What Is the Correct Dose of Orlistat?

The standard dose for adults is one 120mg capsule taken up to three times daily, once with each main meal. Do not exceed three capsules per day under any circumstances. If a meal is skipped or contains no fat, that dose should be omitted entirely — taking orlistat without dietary fat present offers no benefit and may cause unnecessary discomfort.

When Is the Best Time to Use Orlistat?

Orlistat is most effective when taken in direct relation to meals containing fat. The ideal window is immediately before eating, during the meal, or within one hour of finishing. Taking it too long after a meal means the fat may already have begun to be absorbed, reducing the medicine's effectiveness. Building the habit of taking your capsule at the same time as sitting down to eat is the simplest way to stay consistent.

Spacing your three daily doses across breakfast, lunch, and dinner works well for most people. If you only eat two main meals in a day, you would take a maximum of two capsules on that day.

How Long Can You Use Orlistat For?

Without a prescription, orlistat can be used for a maximum of 12 consecutive weeks. If you have not lost at least 5% of your starting body weight after 12 weeks of treatment, you should stop taking it and speak to your GP about alternative approaches. Continuing beyond 12 weeks requires a prescription, and your doctor will review your progress and overall health before prescribing further.

Long-term use is possible under medical supervision, and some people take orlistat for up to two years or more as part of an ongoing weight management plan. Regular check-ins with your GP or pharmacist are important to monitor progress and check for any emerging concerns.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Orlistat?

The most frequently reported side effects of orlistat are gastrointestinal in nature and are directly related to the medicine's mechanism of action. Because orlistat prevents fat from being absorbed, that undigested fat passes through the bowel and can cause a range of digestive symptoms. These effects are most common in the first few weeks of treatment and tend to improve significantly once you adopt a consistently low-fat diet.

  • Oily or fatty stools (steatorrhoea)
  • Oily spotting on underwear
  • Urgent or more frequent need to open your bowels
  • Flatulence with oily discharge
  • Soft or liquid stools
  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
  • Bloating

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Orlistat?

Some people experience side effects that are not directly related to the gut. These are generally mild and tend to resolve without intervention. If any of the following persist or become bothersome, speak to your pharmacist.

  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Rectal pain or discomfort
  • Tooth or gum disorders
  • Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) in people with type 2 diabetes
  • Menstrual irregularities

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Orlistat?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking orlistat and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following. These reactions, while uncommon, can indicate a significant underlying problem that needs prompt assessment.

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea, or upper abdominal pain
  • Kidney stones: severe pain in the back or side, blood in urine
  • Rectal bleeding

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild gastrointestinal side effects, the most effective response is to review your diet and reduce your fat intake. Keeping a food diary can help you identify meals that trigger symptoms. If side effects are severe, persistent, or affecting your quality of life, stop taking orlistat and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Orlistat Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — orlistat has several clinically significant drug interactions. It can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble medicines and vitamins, and may alter the effectiveness of certain treatments. The most important interactions to be aware of include ciclosporin (take at least 3 hours apart), warfarin (INR monitoring required), antiepileptics such as valproate and lamotrigine, levothyroxine, antiretroviral medicines, and amiodarone. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before starting orlistat, including herbal remedies and supplements.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

It also blocks about 30% of the fat you eat from being absorbed in your intestines. This fat is then removed from your body in your stool.

Adults (aged 18 or older) with a BMI ≥ 30, or a BMI ≥ 27 and ≤ 30 with a chronic weight‐related comorbidity.

It does indeed lower or reduce the absorption of fat, so it might decrease levels of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Your doctor might suggest a multivitamin.

Yes. For best results and fewer side effects, follow a
calorie-controlled diet where no more than 30% of calories come from fat. Spread fat intake evenly across your meals.

You can drink alcohol whilst taking Orlistat as there is no interaction. However, it can hinder your weight loss journey due to the high calories.
In the infrequent event of severe liver injury, Orlistat may damage the liver or kidneys. If someone shows signs of yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, intense abdominal pain, or blood in urine, seek medical assistance.
Not directly. But if you experience extreme diarrhoea, absorption of your pill might be affected. It's advisable to use protection if this occurs.
No, it is only licensed for use in adults over 18.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery

It also blocks about 30% of the fat you eat from being absorbed in your intestines. This fat is then removed from your body in your stool.

Adults (aged 18 or older) with a BMI ≥ 30, or a BMI ≥ 27 and ≤ 30 with a chronic weight‐related comorbidity.

It does indeed lower or reduce the absorption of fat, so it might decrease levels of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Your doctor might suggest a multivitamin.

Yes. For best results and fewer side effects, follow a
calorie-controlled diet where no more than 30% of calories come from fat. Spread fat intake evenly across your meals.

Can I drink alcohol while on Orlistat? You can drink alcohol whilst taking Orlistat as there is no interaction. However, it can hinder your weight loss journey due to the high calories. Are there serious side effects? In the infrequent event of severe liver injury, Orlistat may damage the liver or kidneys. If someone shows signs of yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, intense abdominal pain, or blood in urine, seek medical assistance. Does Orlistat affect birth control pills? Not directly. But if you experience extreme diarrhoea, absorption of your pill might be affected. It's advisable to use protection if this occurs.