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Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules

Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules

  • 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 absorption of approximately one-third of dietary fat
  • ✔️ Clinically proven to support meaningful, sustained weight loss
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults with a BMI of 28 or above
  • ✔️ Works with your diet to reduce calorie absorption from fat
  • ✔️ Available without prescription following a short clinical assessment

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What Are Orlistat 120mg Capsules and How Do They Help With Weight Loss?

 

Struggling to lose weight despite eating less and moving more? You're not alone. Obesity and excess weight affect millions of adults across the UK, and sometimes diet and exercise alone aren't enough. Orlistat 120mg capsules — sold under the brand name Xenical — are a clinically established treatment that works alongside a reduced-calorie diet to help you lose weight more effectively. Available from Cured Pharmacy, this is a pharmacy-only medicine that requires a short clinical assessment before purchase, ensuring it's right for you. If you're exploring your options, our weight loss collection covers a range of products to support your journey.

Xenical Orlistat 120mg is licensed in the UK for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 28 kg/m² or above. It is not a magic fix — it works best when combined with a sensible, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity. Used correctly, it can make a meaningful difference to your weight loss results.

 

How Do Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules Work in the Body?

 

Orlistat belongs to a class of medicines called lipase inhibitors. Here's how it works, step by step:

  • When you eat a meal containing fat, your body normally uses enzymes called lipases (produced in the pancreas and stomach) to break that fat down so it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
  • Orlistat attaches to these lipase enzymes and blocks their activity, preventing them from digesting roughly one-third of the fat you consume.
  • The undigested fat cannot be absorbed and instead passes through your digestive system, leaving the body in your stools.
  • Because fewer calories from fat are absorbed, this creates a calorie deficit that — alongside dietary changes — supports gradual, sustained weight loss.

It's worth noting that orlistat only acts on dietary fat. It has no effect on carbohydrates or protein. This is why following a balanced, reduced-fat diet is so important — eating high-fat meals while taking orlistat significantly increases the risk of unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects.

 

Who Should Consider Using Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules?

 

Orlistat 120mg is suitable for a specific group of adults. It is not appropriate for everyone, and a clinical assessment is always required before you can purchase it. You may be a suitable candidate if you meet the following criteria:

  • You are aged 18 or over
  • Your BMI is 28 kg/m² or above
  • You are committed to following a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet
  • You are not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You do not have a condition that causes malabsorption (such as Crohn's disease) or cholestasis

It is particularly relevant for adults who have already made lifestyle changes but are finding it difficult to achieve meaningful weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Always speak to your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether this treatment is right for you.

 

How Does Xenical Orlistat 120mg Compare to Alli Orlistat 60mg?

 

Feature Xenical Orlistat 120mg Alli Orlistat 60mg
Orlistat dose per capsule 120mg 60mg
Fat blocked per meal Approximately one-third Approximately one-quarter
UK availability Pharmacy-only (P medicine) Pharmacy-only (P medicine)
Minimum BMI requirement 28 kg/m² 28 kg/m²
Prescription required? No (OTC with assessment) No (OTC with assessment)

 

Is Xenical Orlistat 120mg Suitable for Long-Term Use?

 

When purchased over the counter, orlistat 120mg capsules are intended for use for up to 12 weeks. After this period, you should review your progress. If you have lost at least 5% of your starting body weight, a GP may consider continuing treatment on a longer-term prescription basis. It is not recommended to continue purchasing over-the-counter orlistat indefinitely without medical review.

Storage is straightforward: keep capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you are managing other aspects of your health alongside weight loss — such as blood sugar levels — you might also find our diabetes monitoring collection useful.

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.

Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules specifications
Treatment category Weight management / anti-obesity
Mechanism of action Pancreatic and gastric lipase inhibitor
Effective for Weight loss in adults with BMI ≥28 kg/m²
Suitable for Adults aged 18 and over
Active ingredient Orlistat 120mg
Pack sizes 21 capsules, 42 capsules, 84 capsules
Strength 120mg per capsule
UK classification Pharmacy medicine (P)
Drug class Lipase inhibitor
Preparation Hard capsule
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules

 

What Is Xenical Orlistat 120mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules contain the active ingredient orlistat, a lipase inhibitor used to support weight loss in overweight adults. It is used alongside a calorie-controlled, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity. The NHS recommends orlistat as a treatment option for adults with a BMI of 28 or above, particularly where lifestyle changes alone have not produced sufficient results. It is a pharmacy medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription following a clinical assessment.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

 

Before taking orlistat, it is essential to check whether it is safe for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to orlistat or any of the other ingredients in the capsule
  • You have cholestasis (a liver condition affecting bile flow)
  • You have a chronic malabsorption syndrome (e.g. Crohn's disease)
  • You are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
  • You are breastfeeding
  • You are under 18 years of age

Orlistat can interact with several medicines. Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking any of the following:

  • Ciclosporin (an immunosuppressant) — orlistat may reduce its absorption significantly
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants — weight loss itself can affect INR levels
  • Antiepileptic medicines (e.g. lamotrigine, valproate) — reduced absorption may affect seizure control
  • Levothyroxine — take at least 4 hours apart from orlistat
  • HIV medicines — orlistat may reduce their effectiveness
  • Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) — absorption may be reduced; consider a multivitamin taken at bedtime

 

How Should You Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as directed by your pharmacist or as described in the patient information leaflet. The standard dosing instructions are as follows:

  1. Take one 120mg capsule with a full glass of water.
  2. Take it immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal.
  3. Do not take more than three capsules in any 24-hour period.
  4. If you miss a meal, or if your meal contains no fat, skip that dose entirely.
  5. Follow a nutritionally balanced, calorie-controlled diet that provides no more than 30% of calories from fat.
  6. Spread your daily fat intake evenly across your three main meals.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Weight loss (BMI ≥28) Adults 18+ 120mg (1 capsule) Up to 3 times daily with main meals
Not recommended Under 18
Not recommended Pregnancy / breastfeeding

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

 

Like all medicines, orlistat can cause side effects. Most are related to its mechanism of action — undigested fat passing through the gut — and are more likely if you eat a high-fat meal. They tend to improve as you adjust your diet.

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

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

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Anxiety
  • Rectal pain or discomfort
  • Tooth or gum problems — if you're concerned about oral health alongside your weight loss plan, browse our oral health range

Rarely, orlistat has been associated with serious liver injury. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

 

How Should You Store Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your capsules. Follow these guidelines:

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

Supporting your overall health during a weight loss programme is important. You might also consider browsing our vitamins and supplements collection, as orlistat can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and a daily multivitamin taken at bedtime is often recommended.

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 Xenical Orlistat 120mg online in the UK?

You can buy Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. You'll need to complete a short clinical questionnaire before purchase to confirm the treatment is appropriate for you. Visit our weight loss collection to browse all available options.

How does orlistat 120mg work in the body?

Orlistat inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipase enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down dietary fat in your gut. By blocking these enzymes, approximately one-third of the fat you eat cannot be absorbed and is instead excreted in your stools. This reduction in absorbed calories supports gradual weight loss when combined with a reduced-fat diet.

How do I take Xenical Orlistat 120mg capsules step by step?

Take one capsule with a glass of water immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal. Do not take more than three capsules per day, and skip the dose entirely if you miss a meal or your meal contains no fat. Always follow a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet while taking this medicine.

What is the correct dose of orlistat 120mg capsules?

The recommended dose is one 120mg capsule taken up to three times daily, once with each main meal. You should never exceed three capsules in a 24-hour period. If you are unsure about your dose, speak to your pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the best time to take orlistat 120mg?

Take each capsule immediately before, during, or within one hour of eating a main meal that contains fat. Timing it around your meals — rather than at a fixed time of day — is what matters most with orlistat. If you eat fewer than three meals in a day, simply take fewer capsules.

What are the most common side effects of orlistat 120mg?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and include oily or fatty stools, oily spotting on underwear, urgent or frequent bowel movements, and flatulence with discharge. These effects are directly linked to undigested fat passing through your gut and are much more likely if you eat a high-fat meal. Sticking to a low-fat diet significantly reduces the likelihood of experiencing them.

How do I manage the side effects of orlistat?

The most effective way to manage orlistat's gastrointestinal side effects is to keep your fat intake low — aim for no more than 30% of your daily calories from fat, spread evenly across meals. Wearing dark clothing or using panty liners can help manage oily spotting while your body adjusts. Most people find side effects reduce significantly after the first few weeks as they adapt their diet.

Who is eligible to take orlistat 120mg capsules?

Orlistat 120mg is suitable for adults aged 18 and over with a BMI of 28 kg/m² or above who are committed to following a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet. It is not suitable for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, or who have certain medical conditions such as cholestasis or chronic malabsorption syndrome. A clinical assessment is always required before purchase.

What happens if I miss a dose of orlistat?

If you miss a dose, simply skip it — do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed. If you skipped a meal or your meal contained no fat, there is no need to take the capsule at all. Missing an occasional dose will not significantly affect your overall weight loss progress.

Can I take orlistat 120mg if I have diabetes?

Orlistat can be used by people with type 2 diabetes, and weight loss achieved through its use may actually help improve blood sugar control. However, as your weight decreases, your diabetes medication may need to be adjusted — so it is essential to inform your GP or diabetes nurse before starting orlistat. Regular monitoring is advisable, and our diabetes monitoring collection has tools to help you keep track.

Does orlistat interact with any other medicines?

Yes, orlistat can interact with several medicines including ciclosporin, warfarin, antiepileptic drugs (such as lamotrigine and valproate), levothyroxine, and some HIV medicines. It can also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines and supplements you are taking before starting orlistat.

How long do you stay on orlistat 120mg?

When purchased over the counter, orlistat is recommended for use for up to 12 weeks. After this period, you should assess your progress — if you have lost at least 5% of your initial body weight, a GP may consider continuing treatment on a longer-term prescription basis. Continuing to purchase OTC orlistat beyond 12 weeks without medical review is not recommended.

What are the alternatives to Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

The main over-the-counter alternative is Alli Orlistat 60mg, which contains half the dose of orlistat and blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. On prescription, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Wegovy) are now available for weight management in eligible patients. Speak to your GP or pharmacist to discuss which option is most appropriate for your circumstances.

Should I take a multivitamin while using orlistat?

Yes, it is generally recommended to take a daily multivitamin containing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) while using orlistat, as the medicine can reduce their absorption from food. Take the multivitamin at bedtime — at least two hours after your last orlistat capsule — to minimise any interaction. Browse our vitamins and supplements collection for suitable options.

What are the latest studies on orlistat for weight loss?

Orlistat remains one of the most studied weight loss medicines available. Clinical evidence consistently shows that orlistat, combined with a reduced-calorie diet, produces significantly greater weight loss than diet alone — with studies demonstrating average losses of 5–10% of body weight over 12 months in adherent patients. It also has evidence supporting modest improvements in cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels in overweight adults.

How Should You Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules?

Always use Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules exactly as directed by your pharmacist or as described in the patient information leaflet. This medicine works best when combined with a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet — ideally one where no more than 30% of your daily calories come from fat. Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

Do not crush or chew the capsules. If you vomit within one hour of taking a dose, do not take a replacement capsule — wait until your next scheduled meal.

What Is the Correct Dose of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

The standard dose for adults is one 120mg capsule taken up to three times daily — once with each main meal. You should never exceed three capsules in any 24-hour period. The table below summarises the dosing guidance:

If you only eat one or two meals in a day, take one capsule with each of those meals only. There is no benefit to taking extra capsules to compensate.

When Is the Best Time to Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

Unlike many medicines that are taken at a fixed time each day, orlistat is timed around your meals rather than the clock. The capsule must be taken immediately before, during, or within one hour of eating a meal that contains fat — this is when the lipase enzymes are active and the medicine can work most effectively. Taking it too long after eating reduces its effectiveness considerably. If you tend to eat at regular times each day, you'll naturally fall into a consistent routine.

How Long Can You Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg For?

When purchased over the counter, Xenical Orlistat 120mg is recommended for use for up to 12 weeks. At the end of this period, you should review your progress with a pharmacist or GP. If you have lost at least 5% of your starting body weight, a doctor may consider prescribing orlistat for continued use beyond 12 weeks. Do not continue purchasing over-the-counter orlistat beyond this period without seeking medical advice first, as ongoing monitoring of your health and any interacting medicines is important.

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

How Should You Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules?

Always use Xenical Orlistat 120mg Capsules exactly as directed by your pharmacist or as described in the patient information leaflet. This medicine works best when combined with a calorie-controlled, reduced-fat diet — ideally one where no more than 30% of your daily calories come from fat. Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

Do not crush or chew the capsules. If you vomit within one hour of taking a dose, do not take a replacement capsule — wait until your next scheduled meal.

What Is the Correct Dose of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

The standard dose for adults is one 120mg capsule taken up to three times daily — once with each main meal. You should never exceed three capsules in any 24-hour period. The table below summarises the dosing guidance:

If you only eat one or two meals in a day, take one capsule with each of those meals only. There is no benefit to taking extra capsules to compensate.

When Is the Best Time to Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

Unlike many medicines that are taken at a fixed time each day, orlistat is timed around your meals rather than the clock. The capsule must be taken immediately before, during, or within one hour of eating a meal that contains fat — this is when the lipase enzymes are active and the medicine can work most effectively. Taking it too long after eating reduces its effectiveness considerably. If you tend to eat at regular times each day, you'll naturally fall into a consistent routine.

How Long Can You Use Xenical Orlistat 120mg For?

When purchased over the counter, Xenical Orlistat 120mg is recommended for use for up to 12 weeks. At the end of this period, you should review your progress with a pharmacist or GP. If you have lost at least 5% of your starting body weight, a doctor may consider prescribing orlistat for continued use beyond 12 weeks. Do not continue purchasing over-the-counter orlistat beyond this period without seeking medical advice first, as ongoing monitoring of your health and any interacting medicines is important.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

The most frequently reported side effects of orlistat are gastrointestinal in nature and are a direct result of how the medicine works — undigested fat passing through your bowel. They are more likely to occur if you eat a meal that is high in fat. Most people find these effects reduce significantly once they adjust their diet to keep fat intake low.

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

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

Some people experience side effects that are less directly related to fat digestion. These are less frequent but worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as colds)
  • Irregular or missed menstrual periods
  • Anxiety or low mood
  • Rectal pain or discomfort
  • Tooth or gum problems
  • Fatigue
  • Urinary tract infections

These effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own. If any of them persist or become troublesome, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Xenical Orlistat 120mg?

Serious side effects from orlistat are rare, but you should be aware of them. Liver injury has been reported in a very small number of people taking orlistat, though a direct causal link has not been definitively established. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark or brown-coloured urine
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • Unusual tiredness or loss of appetite
  • Pale-coloured stools

Kidney stones (oxalate nephrolithiasis) have also been reported rarely. If you experience severe back or side pain, blood in your urine, or difficulty urinating, contact your GP promptly.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Orlistat?

For common gastrointestinal side effects, the most effective management strategy is dietary adjustment. Keep your fat intake to no more than 30% of your daily calories and spread it evenly across meals. Wearing dark clothing or using panty liners can help manage oily spotting while your body adapts. 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 Xenical Orlistat 120mg Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Orlistat can interact with a number of medicines, sometimes in clinically significant ways. The most important interactions include ciclosporin (reduced absorption), warfarin and other anticoagulants (altered INR due to weight loss and reduced vitamin K absorption), antiepileptic drugs such as lamotrigine and valproate (reduced absorption potentially affecting seizure control), levothyroxine (take at least 4 hours apart), and some HIV antiretroviral medicines. Orlistat also reduces the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K — taking a daily multivitamin at bedtime is advisable. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine and supplement you are taking before starting orlistat.

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

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

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