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Xenical® (orlistat)
Weight Loss Xenical®
Weight Loss Xenical®

Xenical® (orlistat) prescription available online

If you are suffering from weight-related medical problems, Xenical® (orlistat) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Xenical® from a board-certified primary care doctor online.*

FDA-approved for weight loss and weight maintenance Request Xenical® in as little as 15 minutes, with or without insurance* Complete course for optimal results
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Xenical®

Xenical® (orlistat) is a weight loss medication, which is thought to work by blocking the enzyme that breaks down dietary fat as it moves through your digestive tract. The undigested fat then passes out of the body through bowel movements. Therefore, orlistat interferes with dietary fat absorption.

 

Xenical® is used in combination with doctor-approved exercise, diet, and behavior change to help with weight loss. Xenical® is available only by prescription. It's available in a generic formulation Called Alli which is available over the counter without a prescription, although this dose is lower than the prescription form of Xenical.

 

Xenical® is a capsule that is typically taken three times a day, during or shortly after meals that contain some fat. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

 

If you're prescribed Xenical®, be sure to complete the full course of the weight loss medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the weight loss medication may not fully treat your weight-related medical problems.

Xenical® uses

The only FDA-approved use for Xenical® are for weight loss and weight maintenance.

Weight loss and weight maintenance

Xenical® is FDA-approved for weight loss and weight maintenance in obese patients, overweight patients, and patients with weight-related medical problems. Obesity is considered a body mass index (BMI) over 30. 

 

Xenical® is typically prescribed with a reduced-fat diet and exercise. 

Xenical® side effects

The side effects associated with orlistat treatment are typically mild. Most Xenical® side effects are associated with Xenical's® dietary fat-blocking action. 

 

Xenical® has some common side effects. They may include: 

  • Oily or fatty stools

  • Oily spotting in your underwear

  • Loose stools, or an urgent need to go to the bathroom

  • An increased number of bowel movements

  • Upper stomach pain and nausea

  • Deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins including vitamins A, D, E and K 


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Severe stomach pain

  • Painful or difficult urination

  • Kidney or liver problems


You should call your online doctor if you notice any adverse effects or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Xenical® is FDA-approved for obesity management in children 12 years of age and older.

In rare cases, Xenical® may cause acute liver failure or severe liver injury. Your doctor will monitor renal function regularly to make sure Xenical® is safe for you.

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How to take Xenical®

Your doctor and pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Xenical® prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions. 

 

Adults typically take a 120 mg capsule orally three times a day with each fat-containing meal. Xenical® can be taken during the meal or within an hour of finishing the meal.

What to avoid while taking Xenical®

Xenical® has 132 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and other drugs.

 

Possible drug interactions with Xenical® include:

  • Insulin and other medications that affect glycemic control

  • HIV or AIDs medications

  • Seizure medication

  • Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and other fat-soluble nutrients

  • Blood thinners and antiretroviral drugs

 

Xenical® does not interact with alcohol, but make sure to ask your doctor for medical advice before drinking alcohol while taking orlistat.

Medication alternatives to Xenical®

If your doctor prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another weight loss medication. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Weight loss and weight maintenance

Wegovy® Contrave® Zepbound™
Topiramate

Xenical® prescription FAQs

How much does Xenical® cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, Xenical® 120 mg costs around $730 for 90 capsules without insurance. Price also varies with insurance coverage. Over the counter orlistat, sold as Alli, is available in 60 mg capsules and a 90 capsule supply costs around $47.

How can I refill my Xenical® prescription?

To refill your Xenical® prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified primary care doctors. After reviewing your medical history, ordering any necessary lab work or evaluations, and assessing your results, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy. 

Who should not take Xenical®?

Avoid taking orlistat if you have certain medical conditions, such as gallbladder problems. Do not take orlistat treatment if you're pregnant. Weight loss has no potential benefit for a pregnant woman and may cause fetal harm.

Taking orlistat can make it harder for your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins, which are important if you're breastfeeding. Do not take Xenical® without your doctor's advice if you're currently breastfeeding.

How fast can you lose weight on Xenical®?

You should see weight loss within two weeks of starting Xenical®. Tell your doctor if you notice an increase in body weight while taking Xenical®.

What happens if I miss a dose of Xenical®?

If you miss a dose of Xenical®, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but no more than one hour after eating a meal. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

When should you not take Xenical®?

If you skip a meal or eat a meal that does not contain any fat, skip your Xenical® dose for that meal.

Does orlistat work on an empty stomach?

No, orlistat does not work on an empty stomach. You should only take orlistat when you've consumed a fat-containing meal.

3 simple steps to request your Xenical® prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Xenical® prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your board-certified primary care physician regarding a Xenical® prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Xenical® prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Xenical® prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Xenical® prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

19.99

First month free

+

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less! We accept these insurance plans and many more:
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Paying without insurance

19.99

First month free

+

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Am I a Candidate?

*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included.

Xenical® prescription resources

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.