What is orlistate?
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that reduces the absorption of fat from the food in the intestine. Approximately 30% of the food fat is taken up unadjusted instead.
Orlistat is available in two dosages:
- 120 mg (receptible, as xenical or generic)
- 60 mg (free of prescription, as Alli or Orlistat Hexal)
It is one of the oldest drugs for weight reduction and works differently than the new GLP-1 agonists: not on the brain, but in the intestine.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Orlistat
Orlistat inhibits gastrointestinal lipases – enzymes that split food fat:
Mechanism:
- Ties to lipases in the stomach and small intestine
- Prevents the cleavage of triglycerides
- Uncleaned fats cannot be absorbed
- About 30% of food fat is excreted
**
- Less calorie intake from fat
- Weight loss in calorie-reduced diet
- "Education Effect": Fat-rich meals lead to unpleasant side effects
Who is it suitable for?
Orlistat is suitable for:
- Adults with BMI ≥ 28 (free of prescription 60 mg)
- Adults with BMI ≥ 30 (receptable 120 mg)
- People who can eat fat-reduced
- As support for a calorie-reduced diet
Available Dosages
Recept-free (Alli):
- 60 mg, 3x daily at meals
Receptable (Xenical):
- 120 mg, 3x daily at meals
How to Take
- A capsule right before, during or until 1 hour after each main meal
- Only necessary for fatty meals
- Not more than 3x a day
- Take multivitamin preparation in the evening (fat soluble vitamins are also blocked)
Contraindications
- Chronic Malabsorption
- Cholestase (Gallenstau)
- Pregnancy/style
- Ciclosporin intake
- Warfarin intake (monitoring germination values)
Possible Side Effects
Very common (especially in rich food):
- Fat/oily chairs
- chair urge
- Oil stains on underwear
- Blowings with chair outlet
- More frequent stool
**
- stomach pain
- Incontinence
- Blowing
These side effects are a "education effect" – they occur mainly in food rich in fat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is orlistate right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.





