Orlistat is supplied in 60 mg, 120 mg. The standard approach is 120 mg with each main fat-containing meal, up to three times daily
Strength and use
| Strength | Typical role |
|---|---|
| 60 mg | Starting or low-dose maintenance |
| 120 mg | Standard maintenance dose |
Titration path
- 1
Step 1: initiate
Begin at the lowest useful strength of 60 mg.
- 2
Step 2: assess
Review after the onset window of effects on fat absorption from the first dose.
- 3
Step 3: escalate
Move up one strength only if the response is partial and tolerance is good.
- 4
Step 4: maintain
Hold at the lowest effective dose for weight management alongside a reduced-fat diet and review periodically.
Key takeaways
- Standard dosing: 120 mg with each main fat-containing meal, up to three times daily
- Dosing interval: acts locally in the gut per dose.
- Never double up after a missed dose: resume the normal schedule.
- Store below 25 °C to protect potency across the shelf life.
Missed doses and adherence
If a dose is missed and the next one is close, skip it. Doubling increases the risk of oily stool without improving outcomes. Blister packaging and clear dispensing labels measurably improve adherence on capsule lines.
Orlistat at a glance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drug class | gastric and pancreatic lipase inhibitor |
| Common brand | Xenical / Alli |
| Licensed use | weight management alongside a reduced-fat diet |
| Available strengths | 60 mg, 120 mg |
| Dosage form | capsule |
| Typical onset | effects on fat absorption from the first dose |
| Duration / dosing interval | acts locally in the gut per dose |
| Storage | below 25 °C |
