Orlistat
Orlistat, sold as Xenical, is the only product on this shelf. It comes in 60 mg and 120 mg capsules and is listed for Obesity Management alongside a reduced-calorie diet.
Medicine containing Orlistat
Key points
- Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor: it blocks the enzymes that break down dietary fat, so a portion of the fat you eat passes through undigested.
- The label also indicates orlistat to reduce the risk of weight regain after prior weight loss.
- For anyone taking ciclosporin alongside orlistat, the label specifies administering ciclosporin 3 hours after the orlistat dose.
How orlistat affects vitamin absorption
Because orlistat blocks fat absorption, it also limits how much of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) your body takes in. The label advises taking a multivitamin containing these vitamins to ensure adequate nutrition. This is the practical consequence of the mechanism: the same block that stops dietary fat from being broken down also slows the uptake of vitamins that need fat to be absorbed. For anyone in the Weight Management category, this timing point is easy to overlook.
Further reading
FAQ
In which products can I find orlistat?
On Direct Meds, orlistat comes as Xenical. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does orlistat cost in South Africa?
Compare the price of each product, strength and pack above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted.
Payment and prices →Can I buy orlistat over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order orlistat. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver orlistat to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →Last updated
Related articles
22 Sept 2026 ⋅ 4 min read
Mysimba vs Xenical: comparing oral weight-loss medicines
Compare Mysimba and Xenical by how they work, expected benefits, interactions and side effects, including Mysimba's important opioid warning.
Read guide