Orlistat Capsules

Orlistat is a prescription weight loss medication that works by blocking fat absorption in the gut. It is used in adults with obesity or overweight with associated risk factors, as part of a comprehensive weight management program. This medication is available through Chemist Doctor's regulated online service following a consultation with UK-licensed clinicians.
You must complete a short online consultation so that our prescriber can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you.
Assessment
Answer some questions about your health concerns & symptoms

Treatment
Connect with a clinician 100% online, no appointment needed

Delivery
Get your medication delivered directly, if prescribed

How Orlistat Works for Weight Loss
Orlistat operates through targeted pancreatic lipase enzyme inhibition, reducing dietary fat absorption by approximately 25%. This mechanism:
- Blocks ~25% of consumed fat from digestion
- Promotes negative energy balance
- Encourages healthier dietary choices
Clinical studies demonstrate patients using Orlistat with lifestyle changes lose significantly more weight than diet/exercise alone (NICE, 2023).
Using Orlistat 120mg Capsules Correctly
Optimal results require strict adherence to dosing guidelines:
Dosing Schedule | Dietary Requirements | Special Considerations |
---|---|---|
1 capsule with each main meal (max 3/day) | Meals containing fat (≥15g total fat) | Skip dose if meal skipped/contains no fat |
Combine with our medically-approved Orlistat Diet Plan for enhanced results.
Orlistat Treatment Benefits and Considerations
When used appropriately under medical supervision, Orlistat offers:
- Clinically-proven weight reduction
- Improved metabolic parameters
- Reduced obesity-related health risks
Important considerations include potential gastrointestinal effects and necessary long-term lifestyle changes. Always consult your GP before starting any weight loss medication.
Potential Side Effects of Orlistat
Common gastrointestinal effects relate to undigested fat excretion:
- Oily/fatty stools (steatorrhoea) - 20-30% patients
- Increased defecation urgency - 10-15%
- Flatulence with discharge - 5-10%
These typically reduce with continued use and proper dietary management. Review the complete Orlistat Patient Information Leaflet for full safety details.
Important Safety Information
Orlistat contraindications include:
- Chronic malabsorption syndromes
- Cholestasis
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding
Drug interactions may occur with anticoagulants, antiepileptics, and thyroid medications.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey Safely
If you're struggling with obesity-related health concerns, our UK-registered clinicians can assess your suitability for Orlistat treatment. Begin your online consultation and receive next-day delivery if approved before 3pm.
Getting your medication is quick and easy with our simple 4-step process:
Start Consultation
Complete our brief health questionnaire about your medical history and current health.
Medical Review
UK-registered clinicians review your consultation for safe prescribing.
Pharmacy Processing
If approved, our partner pharmacy prepares your medication.
Fast Dispatch
Your order is dispatched via your chosen delivery method.
What does the online consultation involve?
You'll answer questions about your medical history and current health to ensure safe prescribing. Honest responses are vital for your safety.
How do I reorder medication?
Use the login details emailed after your first order to access your account and reorder.
How does the secure chat portal work?
Clinicians may contact you via your account's chat portal to discuss your treatment. Respond securely within your account.
At Chemist Doctor, we respect your privacy and ensure complete discretion at every step.
Discreet Packaging
All orders are sent in tamper-evident, plain white boxes sealed within anonymous grey mailing bags.
Secure Data
Your personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential with SSL encryption.
Private Consultations
All consultations are conducted privately by UK-registered clinicians.
Anonymous Billing
Credit card statements show a neutral descriptor with no reference to medications.
Will my GP be informed about my order?
Only with your consent. We recommend updating your GP directly for seamless care.
We offer two reliable delivery options to suit your needs:
Service Type | Delivery Speed | Order Cut-off | Carrier |
---|---|---|---|
Standard Delivery | 2-3 business days | No cut-off | Royal Mail |
Premium Next-Day Delivery | Next business day | 3 PM weekdays | Royal Mail 24 |
Next-day delivery guarantee applies to orders approved before 3 PM to these regions:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Service Restrictions: We currently cannot deliver to: Republic of Ireland, Continental Europe, USA, or Canada
Is packaging discreet?
Yes. All orders are shipped in plain, unmarked packaging via tracked courier services.
Do I need to stay home for delivery?
No. You'll receive a tracking number to monitor your parcel's progress.
Do you deliver on weekends or bank holidays?
Deliveries occur Monday–Friday only. We do not ship on weekends or UK bank holidays.
What should I do if my order hasn't arrived?
Use your tracking number to locate the parcel or contact our support team for assistance.
Can I receive delivery updates via SMS?
Yes. Provide your mobile number at checkout for courier updates. We will not use it for marketing purposes.
Credit/Debit Cards
Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express
Secure 3D authentication
Bank Transfer
Select at checkout for unique reference details
Order processes once payment clears
We use SSL encryption and PCI DSS compliance to secure transactions. Learn more in our Privacy Policy.
How long do refunds take to process?
Card payments: Refunds appear in 3–5 days.
Bank transfers: We'll contact you for account details to return funds.
Why was my order declined?
Declined orders are not charged. Card authorisations release funds within 3–5 days (contact your bank for details).
Can I return prescription medication?
No. UK law prohibits returns of dispensed prescription treatments for safety reasons.
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Orlistat FAQs
Can I take Orlistat long-term?
Treatment duration should be reassessed every 3-6 months. Continued use requires:
- Documented weight loss (≥5% body weight)
- No adverse effects
- Ongoing lifestyle modifications
Does Orlistat affect birth control?
Orlistat may reduce oral contraceptive absorption. Safety measures include:
- Use barrier methods if experiencing diarrhea
- Take contraceptives 2 hours before/after Orlistat
- Monitor for breakthrough bleeding
![]() | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
![]() | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 01 May 2025
Next Review: 04 December 2025
Published on: 01 May 2025
Last Updated: 02 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
![]() | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |






Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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