Xenical (Orlistat) Capsules
Xenical capsules are an affordable and popular weight loss pill. It has the active ingredient Orlistat. Evidence shows Xenical supports an average body weight loss of 5-10% when combined with healthy eating and lifestyle changes.
You can buy Xenical online through our clinically supported weight loss service.
Every weight loss treatment with The Family Chemist includes free access to online nutrition coaching powered by Nutrable. After your purchase is approved, you’ll receive your access code by email. You can also find your access code in your Family Chemist dashboard.
Prices starting from:
£49.99
Xenical Price
At The Family Chemist, we strive to offer our customers affordable private care, regularly checking our prices against competitors to ensure you’re getting the best value for money.
How to take it
Timing: Take one Xenical capsule with water during or up to 1 hour after each main meal.
Don’t chew or break the capsule and swallow it whole.
You must eat a nutritionally balanced diet; ensuring that your meal doesn’t have more than 30% of its calories from fat. This will support weight loss and lower the chances of side effects from Xenical.
What is Xenical?
Xenical is a branded version of Orlistat, a popular weight loss pill that attaches to certain enzymes in the body that break down fat.
It has been available in the UK for over 25 years and is one of the most clinically studied weight loss treatments available. Xenical comes as a hard 120mg capsule taken up to three times a day, once with each main meal.
Xenical capsules work purely in the digestive system. They do not suppress appetite, affect the brain, or break down fat already stored in the body. Its effectiveness is directly linked to the fat content of your diet. If you eat a low-fat meal or skip a meal, you should not take a dose.
When paired with a diet and lifestyle change, it can help people achieve weight loss.
How does Xenical work?
Xenical’s active ingredient, Orlistat, acts on certain enzymes in the gut to stop the breakdown and absorption of fat that has been consumed during a meal.
After you eat a meal containing fat, your digestive system releases enzymes called lipases to break the fat down into smaller molecules that can pass through the gut wall and into the bloodstream.
Xenical attaches directly to these lipase enzymes and deactivates them, preventing them from processing around a third of the dietary fat in your meal.
This way the calories absorbed from the food are lower and the fat is also not stored in the body, leading to eventual weight loss. Xenical will not work on existing fat in the body.
The medication is known to block around one third of the fat from food eaten from being absorbed. Any fat that isn’t digested is then passed through your stools. If Xenical is taken with low-fat meals, it will not affect weight loss or make an impact.
Who can take Xenical?
Xenical is a prescription-only treatment suitable for adults who meet at least one of the following criteria:
- A BMI of 30 kg/m² or above (classified as obese)
- A BMI of 28 kg/m² or above with at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
At The Family Chemist, our clinical team will always review your BMI and full medical history during your online weight loss consultation to confirm that Xenical is safe and appropriate for you.
Who cannot take Xenical?
While Xenical is a fully licensed and well-established weight loss treatment, it is not suitable for everyone. You should not take Xenical if any of the following apply:
- You have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Orlistat or any of the other ingredients in Xenical.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. Xenical is not safe during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.
- You have chronic malabsorption syndrome, a condition that already impairs how your body absorbs nutrients from food.
- You have cholestasis, a liver condition that reduces bile flow into the digestive system.
- You have kidney disease or a history of oxalate kidney stones.
- You have an active severe eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa.
- You are under 18 years of age.
- You take ciclosporin. Xenical significantly reduces ciclosporin absorption and these medicines must not be taken together.
Always disclose all medical conditions and current medications when completing your consultation. If you are unsure whether Xenical is right for you, our clinical team can advise.
Is Xenical available on the NHS?
Yes. Orlistat, the same active ingredient as Xenical, can be prescribed on the NHS under certain circumstances. However, the NHS typically prescribes the generic version, Orlistat, rather than the branded Xenical, and access depends on your GP and local availability.
In practice, many patients face long waits for GP appointments or specialist referrals before NHS it can be approved. Ordering Xenical or generic Orlistat through The Family Chemist gives you faster access via a private prescription, with a clinical review completed online, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
How to take Xenical
The recommended dose of Xenical is one 120mg capsule up to three times a day. Follow these guidelines for the best results:
- Take one capsule immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal. If you take it more than one hour after a meal, it will not be effective.
- Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or break it.
- If your meal contains no fat, or if you skip a meal, do not take Xenical.
- No more than 30% of the total calories in each meal should come from fat.
- Do not take more than three capsules in a 24-hour period.
- Eat a nutritionally balanced, reduced-calorie diet rich in fruit, vegetables and lean protein.
- Aim for regular physical activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or other exercise suitable for you.
How quickly does Xenical work?
Xenical begins blocking fat absorption from your very first dose. Within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment, you may notice changes in your stools. Oilier, looser stools can be a sign that Xenical is working and undigested fat is being passed out of the body.
Visible weight loss generally becomes noticeable within the first few weeks of consistent use, when combined with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet. Meaningful progress is typically assessed at 12 weeks.
Longer-term data shows that patients who respond well to Xenical at 12 weeks can expect to lose 5-10% of their starting body weight over six months, with continued use.
What to expect when on Xenical and when will I see results?
In clinical trials and studies, Xenical has shown that it can help people lose a modest, but meaningful amount of weight when it’s combined with a reduced-calorie diet and physical exercise.
About 35-55% of people lost at least 5% of their starting body weight, and around 16-25% lost 10% or more of their weight. Xenical can give you an added boost to support steady, gradual weight loss.
You should aim to lose 5% of your starting weight by week 12, however, the speed and quality of Xenical’s effects depend on your diet and lifestyle.
How long can I take Xenical for?
Xenical has been studied in long-term clinical trials and can be suitable beyond the initial 12-week assessment period, provided you are responding to treatment.
- 12-week review: If you have lost at least 5% of your starting body weight, treatment can be continued.
- Up to 12 months: Xenical can typically be prescribed for up to 12 months under private prescription, subject to ongoing clinical review.
- Beyond 12 months: Continued use should be reviewed by a clinician, with periodic checks on nutritional status and vitamin levels.
- Stopping Xenical: Xenical does not need to be tapered. If you stop, fat absorption will return to normal within 24-48 hours.
What are the side effects of Xenical?
Xenical, like any other medication, can cause some side effects. Some of the very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) side effects are:
Common side effects
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Oily spotting or discharge from the back passage or fatty stools
- More frequent, or urgent bowel movements
- Headaches
Less common side effects
- Rectal pain or discomfort
- Soft stools
- Faecal incontinence
- Bloating, particularly in patients with type 2 diabetes
- Tooth or gum disorder
- Irregular or disrupted menstrual cycles
- Tiredness or fatigue
Rare but serious side effects
- Rectal bleeding
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Symptoms of pancreatitis, such as severe persistent upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back
- Symptoms suggesting kidney stones, such as severe pain in your lower back or side, or blood in your urine
- Symptoms of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or persistent fatigue
Report any serious or persistent side effects to our clinical team or your GP immediately.
While taking Xenical, you may experience these side effects. A well-balanced diet with no more than 30% fat can help reduce the likelihood of the side effects persisting.
The list above does not include all possible side effects, therefore it is vital that if you experience any serious side effects whilst using this medication to consult a healthcare professional and if you experience side effects not listed above, complete a MHRA Yellow Card report.
Be sure to read through the patient information leaflet before taking any new medication to familiarise yourself with the possible side effects, cautions, and contraindications. You should only take Xenical capsules once you have understood all the warnings and precautions. If you are concerned discuss this with your doctor or a The Family Chemist clinician.
How can I reduce Xenical side effects?
The most effective way to minimise side effects is to keep dietary fat intake consistently below 30% of meal calories. Practical steps include:
- Aim for no more than 15g of fat per meal to keep digestive side effects manageable.
- Spread fat intake evenly across three meals rather than having one large fatty meal.
- Avoid high-fat snacks, fried foods, pastries, full-fat dairy and fatty processed meats.
- If a meal is unusually high in fat, expect side effects to be more noticeable.
- Eat smaller portions to reduce the overall fat load per dose.
Should I take vitamins with Xenical?
Because Xenical blocks the absorption of dietary fat, it can also reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K, as well as beta-carotene. Over time, this can lead to nutritional deficiencies if not managed.
A daily multivitamin containing vitamins A, D, E and K may be recommended during Xenical treatment. To help it absorb properly, take it at bedtime or at least two hours before or after your last dose of Xenical.
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole foods will also help maintain healthy nutrient levels during treatment.
What happens if I miss a dose of my Xenical capsules?
If you miss a dose of your Xenical capsule, take it as soon as you remember if it’s been less than an hour since your last main meal. After that, you can continue taking it as normal.
Do not double up the number of capsules to make up for a missed dose, as this only increases the likelihood of having side effects.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Xenical?
It’s essential to exercise caution and consult with your healthcare provider regarding alcohol consumption while taking Xenical or any medication.
It is best to limit alcohol during treatment. Alcoholic drinks can be high in calories, can make it harder to stick to a low-fat eating plan, and may worsen digestive discomfort if you are already experiencing side effects.
Can I take Xenical if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Xenical is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Good nutrition, including fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, is important during pregnancy and early infant development and Xenical reduces their absorption.
If you become pregnant while taking Xenical, stop treatment and contact your GP. If you are planning a pregnancy or currently breastfeeding, discuss weight management options with your GP before starting any prescription treatment.
What are alternatives to Xenical?
There are a range of licensed weight loss treatments available in the UK. These include weight loss injections and weight loss tablets.
The table below summarises the main options available through The Family Chemist:
| Mounjaro | Wegovy | Liraglutide | Wegovy Tablets | Xenical | Orlistat | Alli | Mysimba | |
| Category | Injection | Injection | Injection | Tablet | Tablet | Tablet | Tablet | Tablet |
| Active Ingredient(s) | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide | Liraglutide | Semaglutide | Orlistat | Orlistat | Orlistat | Bupropion and Naltrexone hydrochloride |
| Mode of Action | GLP-1 receptor agonist and GIP mimetic | GLP-1 receptor agonist | GLP-1 receptor agonist | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Lipase inhibitor | Lipase inhibitor | Lipase inhibitor | Multimodal action |
| Administration | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once daily | Once daily | With meals | With meals | With meals | With meals |
| Dosage | Starting at 2.5mg, up to 15mg | Starting at 0.25mg up to 7.2mg | Starting at 0.6mg up to 3mg | Starting at 1.5mg up to 25mg | One up to three times a day | One up to three times a day | 60mg up to three times a day | One to four tablets a day |
| Weight Loss % | Up to 21% to 22.5% | About 21% | About 5% to 10% | About 14% to 20% | About 5% to 10% | About 5% to 10% | About 5% | About 5% to 10% |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain | Nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain | Nausea, hypoglycaemia, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, decreased appetite | Nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain | Oily spotting, gas with discharge, faecal urgency, fatty/oily stool | Similar to Xenical: Oily spotting, gas, faecal urgency | Similar to Xenical but may be milder due to lower dose | Nausea, constipation, headache, dry mouth, dizziness |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk | Generic | Novo Nordisk | Haleon | Generic | Not specified | Not specified |
If medicated options are not suitable for you, there are some alternative options to consider:
- Behavioural Therapy: Weight management often involves changes in diet and exercise habits. Behavioural therapy, either individually or in group settings, can provide valuable strategies and support for making lifestyle changes.
- Dietary Counselling: Working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist can help you develop a personalized meal plan that aligns with your weight loss goals and dietary preferences.
- Exercise Programs: Regular physical activity is essential for weight management. Consider engaging in an exercise program or working with a personal trainer to establish a fitness routine.
- Lifestyle Changes: Small but sustainable changes in your daily habits, such as portion control, mindful eating, and adequate sleep, can contribute significantly to weight loss.
- Surgical Options: In cases of severe obesity, surgical procedures like gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or lap band surgery may be considered a last resort.
What should I avoid eating while taking Xenical?
Managing dietary fat is key to getting the best results from Xenical and minimising side effects. Foods to limit or avoid include:
- Fried and deep-fried foods, such as chips, fried chicken and battered fish
- High-fat processed meats, such as sausages, salami, bacon and pâté
- Full-fat dairy, such as butter, cream, full-fat cheese and whole milk
- Pastries, pies, croissants and biscuits
- Crisps and high-fat savoury snacks
- Fatty sauces, gravies and dressings
- Chocolate, cakes and confectionery high in fat
A practical rule of thumb is to choose foods with less than 5g of fat per 100g where possible, and aim for no more than 15g of fat per main meal.
Can I take Xenical with other weight loss medications?
No. It is not safe to take Xenical alongside other weight loss medications at the same time. We cannot prescribe Xenical if you are currently taking another weight loss treatment, including GLP-1 injections such as Mounjaro, Wegovy or liraglutide.
If you want to switch treatments, you must consult our clinical team first. A treatment gap may be required to ensure your safety before starting a new medication.
Can I take Xenical with other medicines or supplements?
Xenical can interact with certain medicines by reducing their absorption. Key interactions include:
- Ciclosporin: Do not take Xenical if you are prescribed ciclosporin. Xenical significantly reduces its absorption.
- Anticoagulants such as warfarin: Xenical reduces vitamin K absorption, which can affect warfarin. Your INR may need closer monitoring.
- Thyroid medicines such as levothyroxine: Take levothyroxine and Xenical at least two hours apart and monitor thyroid function when starting treatment.
- HIV antiretroviral medicines: Reduced absorption of some antiretroviral medicines has been reported. Speak to your specialist before starting Xenical.
- Fat-soluble vitamins: Absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K can be reduced.
Always disclose all current medicines, supplements and herbal remedies when completing your consultation.
Xenical and the Contraceptive Pill
Xenical itself does not directly reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. However if Xenical causes severe diarrhoea or vomiting, your contraceptive pill may not be absorbed properly, reducing its protection against pregnancy.
If you experience severe diarrhoea or vomiting while taking Xenical, use additional barrier contraception, such as condoms, during this time and for at least seven days after symptoms stop. If you are unsure, speak to our clinical team or your GP.
What’s the difference between Xenical and Orlistat?
Xenical is a branded version of the medication Orlistat. There is no difference between the two medications other than the brand. Both treatments have the same active ingredient, come as the same strength of capsules and work in the same way.
If you wish to switch from Xenical to Orlistat, you can stay on the same dose.
It’s important to talk to your GP or prescriber if you’re wishing to switch your weight loss medication.
Sources
Orlistat safety update (2024) Medicines and Healthcare product Regulatory Agency [accessed 20th February 2026]
Xenical emc [accessed 20th February 2026]
Overweight and obesity management (2025) NICE guidelines NG246 [accessed 20th February 2026]
Medically
reviewed by
Tannaz Sohrabi (MPharm, PGDip, IP, MRPharmS)
GPhC Number: 2225756
Last reviewed: 17th April 2026
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