It works by binding to the enzymes in the body to prevent the absorption of fat. On average, Xenical will work on around a quarter to one-third of the fat you eat. Instead of this fat being absorbed, it passes through your gut. For people with high-fat diets, this can result in oily stools.

Xenical treatment is recommended alongside a low-calorie intake diet. One of our pharmacists has written a recent article that discusses an ‘orlistat diet’ and how to optimise Xenical (orlistat) treatment. It is important to try to spread your daily intake of fat across all three meals of the day.

Xenical 120mg capsules are indicated in people with a BMI over 30. It can also be prescribed to people who have a BMI over 28, with another weight-related condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Orlistat can be used as an effective weight loss aid. However, it should always be used alongside a low-fat, reduced-calorie diet and exercise.

Xenical is the branded version of the drug, orlistat. Medically, they are the same drug and contain the same strength (120mg of orlistat).