Xenical® 120mg Capsules for Prescription Weight Management

• ✔ Prescription weight management medicine containing orlistat
• ✔ Works by reducing the amount of dietary fat absorbed by the body
• ✔ Healthcare assessment required before treatment

A Prescription Medicine That Supports Weight Management

Managing weight can be challenging, particularly when lifestyle changes alone have not provided the progress you hoped for. Weight is influenced by many different factors, including eating habits, activity levels, genetics, hormones and existing health conditions.

Xenical® is a prescription weight management medicine containing 120mg of orlistat. It works by reducing the amount of fat absorbed from the food you eat.

Unlike medicines that act on appetite hormones, Xenical works within the digestive system. It blocks some of the enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fat, meaning that less fat from meals is absorbed by the body.

When used alongside a reduced-calorie diet that contains an appropriate amount of fat and regular physical activity, Xenical may help some adults with obesity, or adults with a BMI of 28 or higher if they have risk factors, achieve weight loss.

At NuMe, we understand that choosing a weight management treatment is an important personal decision. Every person has different health circumstances, treatment goals and medical needs.

Our aim is to provide clear, balanced information so you understand how Xenical works, who it may be suitable for and what to expect before starting treatment.

Before Xenical is prescribed, a qualified healthcare professional will assess whether it is appropriate based on your BMI, medical history, current medicines and overall health.

Meet Xenical®

Xenical is a prescription-only weight management medicine containing the active ingredient orlistat 120mg.

It is licensed in the UK for adults who meet specific criteria related to BMI and obesity-associated health risks.

Xenical may be considered for adults who have:

• A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or above, or
• A BMI of 28 kg/m² or above with weight-related risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or other related conditions.

The medicine is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and lifestyle changes.

How Xenical Works

Xenical belongs to a group of medicines known as lipase inhibitors.

Lipases are enzymes produced by the digestive system that help break down fat from food so it can be absorbed.

When Xenical is taken:

• It blocks some digestive lipase enzymes.
• Less dietary fat is absorbed.
• The unabsorbed fat passes through the digestive system naturally.

Because Xenical works by affecting fat absorption, the amount of fat in your meals can influence both how well you tolerate treatment and the likelihood of digestive side effects.

According to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) product information for Xenical, orlistat works locally within the gastrointestinal tract by inhibiting gastric and pancreatic lipases, reducing the absorption of dietary fat.

Treatment is typically used with a balanced calorie controlled diet that provides about 30% of calories from fat.

How Xenical Fits Into Everyday Life

Xenical is taken with meals that contain fat, meaning your eating habits play an important role during treatment.

Many people find that taking Xenical encourages greater awareness of the fat content in their meals. This may help support healthier food choices and a more structured approach to weight management.

However, Xenical is intended to be used as part of a diet and exercise plan, not on its own.

Long-term weight management usually involves a combination of:

• Balanced nutrition.
• Regular physical activity.
• Healthy sleep habits.
• Sustainable lifestyle changes.
• Ongoing healthcare support.

Who Is Xenical Intended For?

Adults who meet the criteria for using Xenical as per its license and need assistance in managing weight can try using Xenical. After considering your situation a healthcare professional will tell you about the suitability of Xenical for your use.

Factors that may be reviewed include:

• Your BMI.
• Existing health conditions.
• Current medicines.
• Previous weight management attempts.
• Your ability to follow a calorie controlled diet.

Meeting the BMI criteria does not automatically mean Xenical is suitable. A full assessment is required before treatment is prescribed.

Clinical Evidence

Xenical contains a 120mg dose of orlistat, which has been studied in adults with obesity as part of a weight management programme involving dietary changes and lifestyle support.

According to the four-year XENDOS clinical study published in the Diabetes Care journal, adults receiving orlistat alongside lifestyle intervention experienced greater average weight loss than those receiving lifestyle intervention alone. Individual outcomes varied and treatment should always be used alongside dietary and lifestyle changes.

Individual results vary and meaningful progress can take up to 12 weeks, depending on factors including starting body weight, diet, physical activity, treatment adherence and personal health circumstances.

Clinical Trial Results

Research into Xenical has shown that adults taking orlistat alongside a reduced-calorie diet may experience greater weight loss than with dieting alone, with studies finding you may lose about 1kg more for every 2kg lost from dieting alone.

Clinical evidence has also shown that weight loss associated with orlistat may support improvements in some obesity-related health factors, including measures linked with conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

However, clinical trials describe average outcomes across groups of participants, and in studies around 37% of users lost at least 5% of body weight after 12 weeks. They cannot predict exactly how any individual person will respond.

What Is Xenical®?

Xenical is a prescription weight management medicine containing orlistat 120mg.

It works differently from medicines that affect appetite or hunger signals. Instead, Xenical acts in the digestive system to reduce the amount of dietary fat absorbed by the body.

According to NHS guidance on orlistat, the medicine works by reducing the amount of fat absorbed from food and should be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet as part of a weight management plan.

Medicine Type

Xenical is a:

• Prescription-only medicine.
• Weight loss treatment.
• Lipase inhibitor.

Active Ingredient

The active ingredient is:

Orlistat 120mg – both Xenical and orlistat contain 120mg of orlistat per capsule, with the same active ingredient.

Mechanism of Action

Xenical blocks some digestive enzymes called lipases.

Normally, these enzymes break down dietary fat so it can be absorbed.

By reducing lipase activity, Xenical reduces the amount of fat absorbed from food.

The remaining undigested fat leaves the body naturally through bowel movements.

Approved Use

In the UK, Xenical is prescribed for adults who meet the relevant BMI criteria and who require additional support with weight management.

It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and lifestyle changes.

UK Availability

Xenical is available in the UK as a prescription medicine.

Branded Xenical is typically priced higher than generic orlistat where both are available by prescription.

It can only be supplied after an appropriate assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

A consultation helps ensure that treatment is suitable and that any potential risks, medical conditions or medicine interactions are considered.

Xenical® Compared With Other Weight Management Medicines

Weight management medicines work in different ways. Some medicines affect appetite signals, while Xenical works by reducing the absorption of dietary fat. Xenical is the branded version of orlistat.

The most suitable option depends on your health circumstances, treatment goals, medical history and advice from a healthcare professional. Branded Xenical and generic orlistat contain the same 120mg of orlistat per capsule and work in the same way at the same dose.

No weight management medicine is suitable for everyone. A healthcare professional can help you understand which options may be appropriate based on your individual circumstances.

Your Xenical® Treatment Pathway

Starting Xenical involves more than receiving a prescription. A healthcare professional will consider your health, medical history and lifestyle before deciding whether this medicine is suitable.

A typical Xenical treatment journey includes several stages.

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before Xenical is prescribed, you will complete a healthcare assessment.

This may include questions about:

• Your current weight and BMI.
• Any existing health conditions.
• Medicines you currently take.
• Previous weight management efforts.
• Your diet and lifestyle habits.

This assessment helps determine whether Xenical is appropriate and whether there are any reasons why another approach may be more suitable.

2. Starting Xenical Treatment

If Xenical is considered suitable, you will receive advice on:

• How to take the capsules correctly.
• How to follow a reduced-calorie diet.
• How much dietary fat to include in meals, with the recommended diet typically limiting fat to about 30% of daily calories.
• Possible side effects and how to manage them.

Understanding how Xenical works is an important part of treatment because the amount of fat you eat can affect your experience with the medicine.

3. Taking Xenical With Meals

Xenical is designed to be taken with each main meal that contains fat, which is the usual dose.

The medicine works when there is dietary fat present because it targets the enzymes responsible for breaking down fat.

If a meal does not contain fat, a healthcare professional may advise that the dose can be missed.

Taking Xenical correctly helps ensure that the medicine is used as intended.

4. Monitoring Progress

Your response to Xenical should be reviewed regularly.

Monitoring may include:

• Changes in body weight.
• Your ability to follow dietary recommendations.
• Any side effects.
• Improvements in health markers.
• How you feel during treatment.

If weight loss is not meeting expectations after an appropriate period, a healthcare professional may review whether continuing Xenical remains suitable.

5. Long-Term Weight Management Support

Weight management is usually a long-term process rather than a short-term change.

Xenical may support weight loss while you build healthier habits that can help you maintain a healthy weight after weight loss and continue beyond treatment.

Ongoing support may include:

• Nutrition advice.
• Activity recommendations.
• Regular healthcare reviews.
• Support with maintaining lifestyle changes.

Understanding Xenical® Treatment

Xenical works by reducing the amount of dietary fat absorbed by the body.

Unlike medicines that influence appetite hormones, Xenical does not directly change hunger signals.

Instead, it works within the digestive system.

What Xenical Does

When you eat fat-containing foods:

1. Digestive enzymes normally break down fat.
2. The body absorbs the smaller fat components.
3. Xenical blocks some of these enzymes.
4. Xenical blocks fat absorption so a proportion of dietary fat is not absorbed.

This mechanism means that Xenical works alongside dietary changes.

What Results Can You Expect?

Individuals respond in varying ways to treatment. Some may find that they lose considerable weight while using Xenical, while others may experience gradual results.

Factors that could influence results include:

• Initial weight at which treatment began.
• Dietary habits.
• Activity levels in the lifestyle of the individual.
• Consistency with treatment.
• The individual's metabolism.
• The presence of other medical conditions.

There are clinical studies that describe average results but cannot predict the outcome for each particular patient.

A realistic approach is to try to improve your results gradually and monitor changes in your weight over time.

Why Lifestyle Changes Still Matter

Xenical is designed to support a healthy diet and lifestyle changes, not replace them.

Long-term weight management usually involves changes that can be maintained over time.

Healthy Eating

A balanced, calorie-controlled diet is an important part of Xenical treatment.

Because Xenical affects fat absorption, understanding the fat content of foods can help you manage treatment more effectively. The recommended plan usually keeps fat to about 30% of total calorie intake.

A balanced diet may include:

• Vegetables and fruit.
• Lean proteins.
• Wholegrain foods.
• Lower-fat dairy options.
• Appropriate portions of healthy fats.

Making gradual improvements can help create habits that are easier to maintain.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can support overall health and complement Xenical treatment.

The right level of activity depends on your health, fitness and personal circumstances.

Examples of suitable activities may include:

• Walking.
• Cycling.
• Swimming.
• Strength exercises.
• Everyday movement.

Building an exercise plan gradually can make it easier to stay consistent.

Sleep and Daily Routine

Sleep is an important part of general wellbeing.

A regular sleep routine may support energy levels, motivation and healthier daily choices.

Small changes to everyday routines can contribute to a wider approach to weight management.

Hydration

Drinking enough fluids supports normal body function.

Staying hydrated can also help maintain healthy bowel habits, which may be particularly useful for people taking medicines that affect digestion.

Building Sustainable Habits

The aim of weight management is not only short-term weight loss.

Developing habits around food choices, movement, sleep and wellbeing can support healthier routines over time.

Xenical may form part of this wider approach when considered suitable by a healthcare professional.

Directions for Use

Xenical should always be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional and according to the instructions provided with your medicine.

Using Xenical correctly helps ensure that you receive the intended dose and understand how it fits into your daily routine.

How to Take Xenical®

The usual dose of Xenical is:

One 120mg capsule taken with each main meal that contains fat.

The capsule should be taken:

• Immediately before eating.
• During the meal.
• Or less than an hour after the meal.

Xenical is usually taken up to three times a day with breakfast, lunch and dinner if these meals contain fat.

If you miss a meal or your meal contains no fat, your healthcare professional may advise that the dose can be omitted.

Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Taking a double dose will not improve results and may increase the chance of side effects.

Following Dietary Advice During Treatment

Xenical works by reducing the absorption of dietary fat, so your diet is an important part of treatment.

Your healthcare professional may recommend a reduced-calorie recommended diet with a balanced calorie controlled diet approach, where fat, carbohydrates and protein are balanced appropriately.

Spreading your daily fat intake across your meals may help reduce digestive side effects. High-fat meals can increase side effects because your body does not absorb all the fat from the meal.

Very high-fat meals may increase the likelihood of effects such as:

• Oily stools.
• Urgent bowel movements.
• Increased bowel movements.
• Abdominal discomfort.

Following dietary advice can make treatment easier to manage.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take Xenical:

• Take it if you remember within less than an hour of your meal.
• If more than one hour has passed since eating, skip the missed dose.
• Take your next dose at the usual time with your next suitable meal.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you regularly forget doses, speak with your healthcare professional for advice.

Storage

Store Xenical according to the instructions supplied with your medicine.

General storage advice includes:

• Keep capsules in their original packaging.
• Store away from moisture and excessive heat.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

If you have questions about storing or travelling with Xenical, ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional.

Vitamins and Nutrient Absorption

Because Xenical reduces fat absorption, it may also reduce the absorption of some fat soluble nutrients.

These include:

• Vitamin A.
• Vitamin D.
• Vitamin E.
• Vitamin K.

Some people taking Xenical may be advised to take a daily multivitamin supplement.

If recommended, the supplement is usually taken at a different time from Xenical, often at bedtime.

Speak with a healthcare professional before starting supplements, particularly if you have existing medical conditions or take other medicines.

Why an Online Consultation Is Required

Xenical is a prescription only medication, which means it requires an assessment by a qualified healthcare professional before it can be supplied.

An online consultation provides a convenient way for your healthcare information to be reviewed safely.

The purpose of the consultation is to ensure that Xenical may be suitable for your individual circumstances.

Supporting Patient Safety

Weight loss medications are not appropriate for everyone.

A healthcare professional will consider factors such as:

• Your BMI.
• Your medical history.
• Existing health conditions.
• Current medicines.
• Previous treatment experiences.
• Your ability to follow dietary advice.

This helps ensure treatment decisions are based on your personal health needs.

Checking Medical Suitability

Xenical may not be suitable for some people.

A healthcare professional may need to consider whether there are concerns relating to:

• Conditions affecting digestion or nutrient absorption, including chronic malabsorption syndrome.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, as Xenical should not be taken if you are pregnant or while breastfeeding.
• Certain liver or kidney conditions, including a history of kidney stones where relevant.
• Allergies to orlistat or other ingredients.
• Medicines that may interact with Xenical.

Providing accurate information during your consultation helps your healthcare professional make a safer assessment.

Reviewing Medicine Interactions

Always tell your healthcare professional about all medicines, vitamins, supplements and herbal products you use.

Xenical may affect how some medicines are absorbed.

Extra advice or monitoring may be needed for people taking medicines such as:

• Blood-thinning medicines.
• Thyroid medicines.
• Diabetes medicines.
• Medicines where consistent absorption is important.
• Certain vitamin supplements.

Do not stop or change prescribed medicines without speaking with your healthcare professional.

Is Xenical® Right for You?

Xenical may be suitable for adults who need support to lose weight and meet the prescribing criteria.

It is generally considered alongside lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments and increased physical activity where appropriate.

Xenical May Be Suitable If You:

• Are an adult with a BMI of 30 or above.
• Have a BMI of 28 or above with obesity-related health risks.
• Understand that Xenical works alongside lifestyle changes.
• Are willing to follow dietary recommendations.
• Want weight loss capsules.
• Are able to attend healthcare reviews when required.

Xenical May Not Be Suitable If You:

Xenical is not suitable for everyone.

A healthcare professional may advise against treatment if you:

• Have certain conditions affecting fat absorption.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have specific medical conditions where Xenical may present concerns.
• Take medicines that may interact with orlistat.
• Have previously experienced a reaction to orlistat or any ingredients in the medicine.

Your healthcare professional will consider your complete health picture before recommending treatment.

Side Effects of Xenical®

Like all medicines, Xenical can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Because Xenical affects how your body absorbs dietary fat, many side effects are related to the digestive system.

These effects are often linked to the amount of fat in your meals.

Following a reduced-fat diet may help reduce the likelihood and severity of digestive side effects.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Oily spotting from the back passage.
• Oily or fatty stools.
• Increased bowel movements.
• Urgent need to open your bowels.
• Wind with oily discharge.
• Loose stools.
• Abdominal discomfort.

These effects are often more noticeable when treatment begins, and oily stools are reported in more than 1 in 10 users.

Some people find that symptoms improve as they adjust their diet and become more familiar with how Xenical affects their digestion.

Less Common Side Effects

Less common side effects may include:

• Stomach pain.
• Bloating.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Headache.
• Tiredness.
• Anxiety-related symptoms.

If side effects become persistent or difficult to manage, speak with your healthcare professional. Stomach pain may be more likely if Xenical is taken incorrectly or without a suitable fat-containing meal.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects are uncommon, but you should seek medical advice if you experience symptoms that may indicate a more serious reaction.

Contact a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Severe or ongoing abdominal pain.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Dark urine.
• Signs of kidney problems.
• Unusual bleeding or symptoms that concern you.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with Xenical for the complete list of possible side effects.

Managing Side Effects

Many digestive side effects associated with Xenical are linked to dietary fat intake.

You may find it helpful to:

• Keep meals lower in fat.
• Avoid very high-fat foods.
• Spread fat intake throughout the day.
• Follow the dietary advice provided by your healthcare professional.
• Keep track of any symptoms.

If side effects continue despite dietary changes, seek advice from your healthcare professional.

Who Can Benefit From Xenical®?

Xenical may be suitable for adults who meet the prescribing criteria and need additional support as part of a structured weight management plan.

Weight management can be complex. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, medical conditions, medications, sleep, stress and eating patterns can all influence body weight.

For some people, Xenical may provide additional support by reducing the amount of dietary fat absorbed from food when used alongside lifestyle changes.

Following a healthcare assessment, Xenical may be considered for adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or above.
• Have a BMI of 28 or above with risk factors.
• Are committed to making dietary and lifestyle changes.
• Understand how the medicine works.
• Are able to follow advice about a reduced-calorie diet.
• Need prescription support for weight management.

A healthcare professional will decide whether Xenical is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.

Meeting the BMI criteria alone does not mean Xenical will be suitable. Your overall health, medical history and current medicines must also be considered.

Potential Health Benefits of Xenical®

When prescribed appropriately and used alongside lifestyle changes, Xenical may support some adults with weight management.

The benefits experienced can vary between individuals and depend on factors including diet, activity levels, consistency with treatment and existing health conditions.

Supporting Weight Loss

Xenical may support adults trying to lose weight by reducing the absorption of dietary fat when used appropriately.

Clinical studies have shown that adults taking orlistat alongside a reduced-calorie diet may achieve greater weight loss compared with those following dietary changes alone.

However, individual results vary and treatment does not guarantee a specific amount of weight loss.

Supporting Improvements Linked With Weight-Related Health Risks

For some people, weight loss achieved during Xenical treatment may support improvements in health factors associated with excess weight.

Clinical studies have investigated the effects of orlistat in people with obesity and related conditions, including:

• Type 2 diabetes.
• High blood pressure.
• Raised cholesterol levels.

The impact on health varies between individuals and depends on many factors beyond medicine alone.

Encouraging Healthier Eating Patterns

Because Xenical affects fat absorption, some people become more aware of the fat content in their meals.

This may encourage:

• More balanced meal choices.
• Greater understanding of food labels.
• Reduced intake of high-fat foods.
• More structured eating habits.

These changes can support a wider approach to long-term health.

Supporting Long-Term Weight Management Goals

Successful weight management usually involves ongoing lifestyle changes.

Xenical may be one part of a wider plan that includes:

• Healthy eating.
• Regular physical activity.
• Sleep support.
• Healthcare reviews.
• Behaviour changes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Xenical®

How does Xenical® work?

Xenical contains the active ingredient orlistat.

It works by blocking some digestive enzymes called lipases. These enzymes normally break down dietary fat so it can be absorbed.

By reducing lipase activity, Xenical reduces the amount of fat absorbed from food.

It works in the same way as other orlistat medicines because they contain the same active ingredient.

Is Xenical® a prescription medicine?

Yes. Xenical is a prescription only medication in the UK.

A healthcare professional must assess whether it is suitable before it can be prescribed.

Who can take Xenical®?

Xenical may be prescribed for adults with:

• A BMI of 30 or above, or
• A BMI of 28 or above with risk factors.

A healthcare professional will assess whether it is appropriate for you.

How quickly does Xenical® start working?

Everyone responds differently to treatment.

Some people may notice changes after starting treatment, while others may experience more gradual progress.

Your healthcare professional will review your response and advise whether continuing treatment is suitable.

Can I take Xenical® without changing my diet?

Xenical is designed to be used alongside a healthy diet.

Following dietary advice is an important part of treatment because the medicine works by affecting fat absorption.

A high-fat diet may increase digestive side effects.

Can I exercise while taking Xenical®?

Yes. Regular exercise can complement Xenical treatment and support overall health.

The type and amount of exercise should be appropriate for your fitness level and medical circumstances.

If you are unsure where to start, speak with a healthcare professional.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Xenical®?

Alcohol is not specifically prohibited for everyone taking Xenical.

However, alcoholic drinks can contribute calories and may affect your overall weight management plan.

If you have concerns about alcohol and your treatment, discuss them with your healthcare professional.

Can I take Xenical® with other medicines?

Always tell your healthcare professional about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you take.

Xenical may affect the absorption of some medicines.

Your healthcare professional can advise whether any adjustments, monitoring or additional precautions are needed.

What happens if I miss a dose of Xenical®?

If you forget to take Xenical with a meal, take the dose if you remember within less than an hour of eating.

If more than one hour has passed, skip the missed dose.

Do not take a double dose to replace a missed dose.

Can I stop taking Xenical®?

Do not stop prescribed treatment without discussing it with your healthcare professional if you need advice about your weight management plan.

They can help review your progress and discuss suitable next steps.

How long should I take Xenical®?

The length of treatment depends on your individual response and whether Xenical continues to be appropriate.

Your healthcare professional may review your progress during treatment.

Can I travel while taking Xenical®?

Yes. Xenical can usually be taken while travelling.

Keep your medicine in its original packaging and follow storage instructions.

If travelling abroad, check whether any additional requirements apply for carrying prescription medicines.

Does Xenical® affect vitamins?

Because Xenical reduces fat absorption, it may affect the absorption of some fat soluble nutrients.

These include vitamins A, D, E and K.

Your healthcare professional may advise taking a daily multivitamin supplement at a different time from your Xenical dose if appropriate.

What happens during an online consultation?

During an online consultation, you will provide information about:

• Your BMI.
• Your medical history.
• Existing health conditions.
• Current medicines.
• Weight management goals.

A qualified healthcare professional will review your information and decide whether Xenical may be suitable.

Choosing NuMe for Xenical® Support

At NuMe, we believe that healthcare decisions should be based on clear information, responsible assessment and personalised support.

Weight management is different for everyone. A treatment that may be suitable for one person may not be appropriate for another.

Our online consultation process helps ensure that Xenical is considered safely and responsibly.

If Xenical is suitable for you, you can receive guidance about:

• How the medicine works.
• How to take it correctly.
• What side effects to look out for.
• How a healthy diet and regular exercise support treatment.
• When to seek further medical advice.

We believe that good healthcare starts with understanding your options.

Xenical may be a suitable weight management weight loss pill for some adults when prescribed alongside dietary changes and ongoing support.

Always follow the advice of your healthcare professional and use Xenical only as directed.