Weight loss

Orlistat (OTC)

Also called: alli, orlistat

A medicine that blocks fat absorption, sold over the counter in some countries.

Why people take it
Weight loss.
What the evidence says
Small extra weight loss with diet.
How it is usually taken
60 mg three times a day with fat-containing meals, with a low-fat diet; take a multivitamin at bedtime.
Be careful
Oily stools and urgency. Take a multivitamin at bedtime. A medicine, not a supplement: ask a pharmacist.
Medicines it can interact with
Reduces absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K, levothyroxine, ciclosporin and some anti-epileptics; affects warfarin.

Other weight loss

Garcinia cambogiaRaspberry ketonesGreen coffee beanForskolinWhite kidney bean extractCapsaicinKeto pillsSemaglutide (not a supplement)

Common questions

What is Orlistat?

A medicine that blocks fat absorption, sold over the counter in some countries.

Why do people take Orlistat?

Weight loss.

Does Orlistat work?

Small extra weight loss with diet.

How much Orlistat do people take?

60 mg three times a day with fat-containing meals, with a low-fat diet; take a multivitamin at bedtime.

Is Orlistat safe?

Oily stools and urgency. Take a multivitamin at bedtime. A medicine, not a supplement: ask a pharmacist.

Does Orlistat interact with medicines?

Reduces absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K, levothyroxine, ciclosporin and some anti-epileptics; affects warfarin.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.