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Weight Management
Orlistat (Thincal)
Orlistat · Gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor
A lipase inhibitor that reduces the absorption of dietary fat, used for weight management.
- Partner pharmacy
- Personal assistance
- Discreet delivery
- Active ingredientOrlistat
- AdministrationOral, with meals
Shipping & Delivery
- Normally dispatched within 24 hours of payment confirmation.
- UPS Express · £12 · Approx. 7–9 business days
- Registered Mail · £8 · Approx. 14–20 business days
What Orlistat (Thincal) is
Orlistat inhibits gastric and pancreatic lipases, reducing the absorption of dietary fat. It is used, together with a reduced-calorie diet, for weight management. Formulation and strength of the Thincal product are to be confirmed with the partner pharmacy.
Suitability and dosing are decided by a prescriber on the basis of the approved product information.
Less fat absorbed, meal by meal
Orlistat works in the gut rather than in the brain. It blocks lipases, the enzymes that digest dietary fat, so part of the fat eaten with a meal is not absorbed and passes out in the stools.
Stomach and intestineInhibits gastric and pancreatic lipases.
ResultPart of dietary fat is excreted instead of absorbed.
In the four-year XENDOS trial, orlistat with lifestyle changes produced greater weight loss than lifestyle changes alone.1
Side effects and warnings
Side effects come mainly from unabsorbed fat and are more likely after high-fat meals:
- Oily spotting, wind with discharge and urgent bowel movements
- Fatty or oily stools
- Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
ImportantNot for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with chronic malabsorption or cholestasis. It can interact with medicines such as ciclosporin, levothyroxine, anticoagulants and antiepileptics. Always read the patient information leaflet.
Product information
Patient information leafletSupplied by the partner pharmacy
Summary of Product CharacteristicsOfficial product information
Common questions
Why do side effects depend on what I eat?
The fat that is not absorbed passes through the gut. Meals high in fat increase the amount, and with it the likelihood of digestive side effects.
Should I take vitamins?
Orlistat can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The product information describes when a multivitamin may be advised; follow the advice of your prescriber or pharmacist.
Do I pay when I send a request?
No. Payment is arranged individually with customer service once your request has been reviewed and can proceed.
Sources
- Torgerson JS, et al. XENical in the prevention of diabetes in obese subjects (XENDOS) study. Diabetes Care. 2004;27:155–161.
- Orlistat 120 mg (Xenical): Summary of Product Characteristics.
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