Weight loss capsules
Introduction
Losing weight is never easy, and sometimes a helping hand is needed. For patients with a BMI over 30, the medicine Orlistat can be prescribed – a weight-loss medicine for combating obesity, usually prescribed in 120mg capsules.
What is Orlistat and what does it do?
Orlistat functions as an enzyme inhibitor, binding to the enzyme in your digestive system known as lipase, to prevent it from carrying out its function.
Lipase’s function consists of breaking down the fats you ingest, making them suitable for absorption by your intestines and storing energy as fat for later use. Because the Orlistat is preventing this breakdown, the fat instead passes through your intestines unimpeded, meaning it isn’t stored in your body.
When is Orlistat prescribed?
Patients with a BMI above 30 are prescribed Orlistat, although it can also be prescribed with a BMI over 27 if other risk factors (such as type 2 diabetes) are present.
What does BMI mean and how do I measure my BMI?
Body mass index, or BMI, is a chart used to assess your ideal weight range based on your height. The World Health Organisation classes a BMI exceeding 30 as obese, whilst the 18.5-25 range is considered healthy.
Is Orlistat suitable for my condition?
As previously stated, a BMI of 27 and up will still be considered, but other factors – such as underlying conditions or medications – must also be taken into account, as these can interfere with Orlistat.
Orlistat is not suitable to use if any of the below applies to you:
You are breastfeeding; you have allergies pertaining to Orlistat or any of its ingredients (detailed in the patient information leaflet); you have cholestasis or chronic malabsorption syndrome; or you are taking certain medications (discussed with your doctors or pharmacists).
What is the recommended dosage of Orlistat?
This will vary depending on your doctor’s instructions, as the dosage we have outlined is for reference only. To take the capsules, simply swallow whole with a glass of water. You can take them before, during, or after eating – whatever is most convenient for you. Remember to never exceed the recommended dosage.
Orlistat dosage for weight loss
In most cases, Orlistat is prescribed in a dosage plan consisting of 1 capsule taken 3 times a day, with each capsule taken around the time of your meals. You’ll get the best results from Orlistat when following a lower-calorie diet.
Remember: Orlistat is only needed for meals containing fat. If your meal doesn’t contain any fat, you do not need to take Orlistat.
Does Orlistat cause any side effects?
Just like most medicines, Orlistat isn’t guaranteed to be without side effects. Luckily, most of the side effects are relatively minor and are most likely to occur at the start of your treatment, before your body is fully used to the medicine. Your body is likely to adapt over time, but let your GP or pharmacist know if any side effects persist.
These side effects most commonly affect the digestive system, and may include: headaches; abdominal pains or discomfort; increased or urgent need for opening the bowels; flatulence with discharge; oily, fatty, or soft stools; and rectal pains or discomfort.
If you notice signs of an allergic reaction, contact your GP or nearest surgery. Allergic reaction signs may include itching, rashes, nausea, breathing difficulties, or vomiting. In serious cases of allergic reaction, call emergency services on 999.
Can I reduce the risk of getting side effects?
By informing our pharmacists of any other medication you may be taking beforehand, you can significantly reduce the risk of side effects. The same is true of any other ailments you may have, all of which will be asked about in the medical questionnaire we provide.
You can also mitigate side effects by sticking to a balanced, nutritious, low-calorie diet whilst taking Orlistat, as this will make digestion far easier for your body – whilst also speeding up your weight loss.
Once you’ve informed us of any other medications or illnesses you may have, we will then dispense your medicine through a tracked delivery service. This medicine is dispatched within 24 hours of your order.
Dosage instructions
Remember: ONE capsule is to be taken THREE times a day, either before, during, or after your main meals.
Service details
Price: Small charge
Frequency: When required.
Availability
You can pop in to your local Amiry & Gilbride Pharmacy whenever you please, or visit your preferred pharmacy’s page for enquiries.
