Losing weight can prove challenging for many individuals. For those on certain medications or with hormonal imbalances or health conditions, dieting and exercise may not be enough to reach and maintain their goal weight. In such cases, weight loss medications can provide some helpful extra support.
One medication that is popular is Orlistat, a drug that was approved in the UK in the late 1990s. Here, we discuss what it is, how it works and its efficacy for those trying to lose weight.
What is Orlistat?
Orlistat is a prescription weight loss drug that can be used by adults with:
● A BMI of 30.
● A BMI of 28 or above and a weight-related medical condition such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
It blocks enzymes in your gut which digest fat, causing it instead to be passed out in your stools.
How does Orlistat work?
Normally, fat from your diet is broken down by chemicals called enzymes that are present in your stomach and intestines. The fat is then absorbed into your body to be stored. Orlistat prevents these enzymes from working, meaning 30-40% less dietary fat is stored in your body.
Orlistat is considered an effective alternative for those who prefer not to use weight loss injectables or those who need an affordable weight loss option. It should successfully help users to reduce their body weight by at least 5% within the first three months of taking it; if this doesn’t happen, it may not be the right treatment and should be stopped. Individuals who find it an effective treatment can use it for as long as they choose, provided they undertake regular reviews with their doctor or pharmacist.
How effective is Orlistat?
In clinical trials, those taking Orlistat alongside diet adjustments lost 50% more weight than those taking a placebo. That means if an individual can lose 4kg by dieting alone, they could lose 6kg by taking Orlistat as well.[1] Other research suggests that some people can lose 10% or more of their body weight within six months of taking the medication. This was in conjunction with a weight-reducing diet and exercise.[2]
A further study concluded that after one year, individuals taking 120mg of Orlistat three times a day regained less weight once they stopped than those taking a placebo.[3]
How to take Orlistat
For maximum efficacy, one Orlistat weight loss capsule should be taken with each main meal (up to three capsules per day). The medication should be taken before, during or up to one hour after each meal. If a meal is missed or does not contain any fat, a capsule is not necessary.
In order to optimise weight loss, individuals should do the following while taking Orlistat:
● Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, but try to reduce dietary calories to healthy amount. This could result in weight loss of around 450g (1lb) per week
● Eat mindfully rather than rushing food.
● Exercise regularly - guidelines suggest at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
● Avoid temptation by keeping cupboards free of foods that are high in fat and sugar.
● Bear in mind that weight loss takes time and patience.
It is also recommended to take a multivitamin once a day alongside Orlistat. Vitamins such as A, D, E and K are fat soluble and may not be absorbed as well while you are taking the weight loss capsule. Take the multivitamin at least two hours before or at bedtime.
Side effects of Orlistat
The most common side effects that users experience with Orlistat relate to the reduced amount of fat that is absorbed into the body. Symptoms are often mild and are not experienced by everyone, but reducing the amount of fat in your diet can help to reduce the risk of them occurring. You could experience:
● Abdominal cramps or discomfort
● Flatulence
● Loose, oily stools
● Oily spotting in your underwear
● An urgent need to defecate
Who should not take Orlistat?
As Orlistat affects the absorption of your digestive system, other medications that you take may be impacted. The weight loss drug can interfere with HIV and AIDS treatments, for example, as well as some treatments for epilepsy.
You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:
● Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant
● Have problems absorbing food
● Have reduce bile flow
● Have had an organ transplant
● Are allergic to any of the inactive ingredients of the drug, such as gelatine
Women taking oral contraception should use other, non-oral forms of contraception.
Take the next step with The Happy Pharmacy
If you’re looking for weight loss solutions that are accessible and tailored to your needs, the team at The Happy Pharmacy can help. Get started by filling in our secure online consultation form. Our licensed clinicians will then review it to ensure you match the profile for the medication, and once approved, you will receive the medication by post within three days. We offer ongoing support too, including optional check-ins and lifestyle guidance.
Get in touch with us today to find out more or start your weight loss journey with us.
FAQs about Orlistat
How long does Orlistat take to work?
Orlistat typically begins to work within a few days of taking it. Noticeable weight loss, however, may take weeks or months. If you have not lost 5% or more of your body weight within the first three months, you should discontinue use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist about an alternative.
What happens if I forget to take Orlistat?
If you forget to take a dose of Orlistat and more than an hour has passed since your last meal, skip the dose and simply take the next one as usual.
What happens if I take more than the recommended dose?
It is important not to take more Orlistat than the recommended dose. If you do so, you may experience an increase in side effects, but it will not increase or speed up weight loss. Speak to your GP or pharmacist if you have exceeded the recommended dose.
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