What is Orlos 60 mg?

Orlos 60 mg is an over-the-counter weight-loss capsule for adults aged 18 or over who are overweight (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m²).

It contains orlistat, a lipase inhibitor that acts in the gut to stop the enzymes that break down dietary fat. By preventing the absorption of up to 25 % of the fat you eat, Orlos helps reduce overall calorie intake and allows undigested fat to pass naturally in the stool.

Unlike the 120 mg prescription version (Xenical/Orlos 120 mg), Orlos 60 mg can be bought from a UK pharmacy without a prescription after a pharmacist checks it is safe and appropriate.

What is Orlos 60 mg Used For?

Weight loss – for adults with a BMI ≥ 28 kg/m² who are following a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Reducing weight-related risks – losing weight can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels and support better blood-sugar control.
Note: Orlos works best as part of a comprehensive plan that includes a calorie-controlled, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.

How Orlos 60 mg Works

Orlos acts locally in the digestive tract with minimal absorption into the bloodstream.

Blocks fat breakdown: inhibits the gastrointestinal lipase enzymes so about 25 % of dietary fat is not digested.
Fat is excreted: the undigested fat leaves the body in the stool, reducing calorie intake.

When is Orlos 60 mg Suitable?

You may be offered Orlos 60 mg if you:

Are 18 or older and have a BMI ≥ 28 kg/m².
Are committed to a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and regular physical activity.
Have tried lifestyle changes but need additional support to lose weight.

A pharmacist will confirm that Orlos is safe for you before supply.

Can Orlos 60 mg Be Purchased Over the Counter?

Yes. Orlos 60 mg is a pharmacy medicine (P-medicine) and can be bought without a prescription after a pharmacist consultation.

The stronger 120 mg dose remains prescription-only.

Alternative Weight-Loss Medications

If Orlos 60 mg is not suitable, a prescriber may consider:

Orlos or generic orlistat 120 mg – prescription strength for those with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² or ≥ 28 kg/m² with health conditions.

Wegovy (semaglutide) or Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) – GLP-1 injections for people who meet specific clinical criteria.

How to Take Orlos 60 mg

Dose: Take one 60 mg capsule up to three times daily with each main meal that contains fat.

Timing: Take during the meal or within one hour afterwards.

Meal composition: Distribute daily fat evenly and aim for meals with about 15 g of fat.

Skip if no fat: If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, skip that dose—do not double up.

Vitamins: Take a multivitamin containing vitamins A, D, E and K at bedtime or at least two hours after an Orlos dose.

Review: If you have not lost at least 5 % of your starting weight after 12 weeks, stop and consult your pharmacist or GP.

Hydration & diet: Follow a calorie-controlled, lower-fat diet and drink plenty of water.

Active ingredient: orlistat 60 mg.

Inactive ingredients (may vary by manufacturer): sodium starch glycolate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, talc.

The capsule shell contains gelatin and colouring agents.

Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the complete list of ingredients, and to check for any you might be allergic to.

Orlos Side Effects

Common:

Oily or fatty stools
Urgent or more frequent bowel movements
Flatulence with discharge
Abdominal cramps or discomfort
Soft stools or rectal irritation
Occasional headache

These are more likely after high-fat meals and usually ease as you follow a lower-fat diet.

Serious – seek urgent medical help (NHS 111 or A&E):

Severe abdominal pain (possible gallbladder or pancreatitis)
Signs of liver problems (yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, persistent fatigue)
Severe allergic reaction (swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing)
Rare kidney effects such as oxalate nephropathy