Lipase inhibitor (weight loss medication)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Orlistat is a weight loss drug that works by blocking your body from absorbing about one-third of the fat you eat, so the unabsorbed fat passes out through your stool instead of turning into body weight.
Inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipases, preventing the hydrolysis and absorption of dietary triglycerides in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing caloric intake and promoting weight loss.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take one 120mg capsule three times a day, with each main meal that contains fat (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Swallow it during the meal or up to one hour after eating. If you skip a meal or eat a meal with no fat, skip that dose. It works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet.
If you miss a dose or eat a meal without fat, just skip that dose and take the next one at your next main meal. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — products like Reeshape Capsules should come in proper sealed packaging, not loose capsules from roadside sellers. Keep your fat intake to about 30% of your daily calories to reduce the oily stool side effects. Orlistat is not a magic pill — it works best alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Orlistat can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills — use additional protection like condoms. It reduces absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), so take a multivitamin at bedtime or at least 2 hours before or after taking orlistat. If you are taking medication for diabetes (like metformin or insulin), your blood sugar may drop as you lose weight, so your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Orlistat with your other drugs?
Orlistat is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — do not use it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing it near windows or in cars. Keep the container tightly closed and away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Orlistat?
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