Orlistat
What is Orlistat?
Orlistat, branded as Alli and Xenical, is a treatment to help you lose weight, to be taken with a low fat diet. It works by lowering the amount of dietary fat that you absorb when you eat. Xenical is the stronger of the two, carrying a 120mg dose, while Alli carries 60mg. Xenical needs a prescription but Alli can be given over the counter.
All is recommended if you have a BMI iof 25 or above, but Xenical will usually only be prescribed if you have a BMI (body mass index) of 28 or more, or if you’re overweight and have other health conditions – such as type 2 diabetes or obstructive sleep apnoea.