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
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- 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 or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.