What is Orlos?
Orlos is a clinically proven weight loss aid used to treat adult patients with a BMI (body mass index) of 28 or above. Orlos capsules contain the active ingredient orlistat at a dose of 60mg. This is the only weight loss drug licenced for use within the UK, and has been proven to assist in greater weight loss than dieting alone.
This medicine is not an appetite suppressant, it works by reducing the amount of fat which is absorbed from the diet into the body. Orlos may help you lose weight faster, and results are enhanced by following a healthy, low calorie diet and exercising regularly.
Body Mass Index (BMI) and Orlos
Orlos may be suitable for you if you have a body mass index (BMI) of over 28. You can quickly calculate your BMI by entering your height and weight into our BMI calculator.
What is the difference between Orlos and Alli?
Orlos and Alli are brand names of weight loss medication which both contain the same active ingredient in the same strength (Orlistat 60mg). The two products are equally effective, Orlos is simply available at a lower price.
How does Orlos work?
The active ingredient in Orlos is orlistat, which works by blocking the effect of an enzyme called lipase. This enzyme normally breaks down the fat from a meal, resulting in absorption of fat into the body. By blocking this effect, orlistat prevents the body from absorbing approximately a quarter of fat from the diet. The fat will instead pass through the body and be excreted in bowel motions, resulting in less calories being absorbed.
How effective is Orlos?
Orlos has been clinically proven to help you lose 50% more weight than dieting alone. For every 2kg you lose through dieting and exercise, Orlos can help you lose an additional 1kg.
How do I take Orlos?
The recommended dose of Orlos is one capsule, swallowed whole with water, to be taken up to three times daily within one hour of each meal. It should not be taken if you are having a meal which does not contain any fat, or if you skip a meal. Also, you should not take the medication more than three times a day.
As Orlos may decrease the effectiveness of nutrient absorption, you should supplement a balanced diet with extra vitamins and minerals in the form of a multivitamin taken once per day. A supplement specifically formulated for Orlos medication is ideal, such as OneVit Complete multivitamin, a comprehensive daily multivitamin boosting your levels of vitamins A, D, E and K among 23 other essential micronutrients.
Can I take Orlos?
Orlos is licensed for use in adults with a BMI of 28 or above and should be taken in conjunction with a healthy, calorie controlled diet that contains approximately 30% of calories from fat.
How fast does Orlos work?
The active ingredient in Orlos is the only clinically proven weight loss medication in the UK. Orlos will decrease the amount of fat absorbed into your body immediately, and how quickly you can see the results depends on your diet and exercise.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Orlos (Orlistat 60mg) include:
- oily rectal discharge
- passing gas with oily discharge
- urgent need to have a bowel movement
- oily or fatty stools
- increased number of bowel movements
- being unable to control your bowel movements
All medications can cause side effects. You may not experience any of them. The majority of the common side effects experienced with Orlos are related to the way it works in your digestive system. These side effects are usually mild, occur at the beginning of treatment, and particularly after high fat meals. Normally these symptoms will subside as you continue treatment and follow your recommended diet.
The most common side effects of Orlos, which may affect more than 1 in 10 people include headache, abdominal pain or discomfort, urgent or increased need to open the bowels, wind, oily discharge or oily/fatty stools.
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
Written and reviewed by our qualified team