Orlistat (
Alli™,
Xenical®) is a weight loss medication that is available with a prescription (sold under the name Xenical) or without a prescription (sold under the name Alli). There is only one standard dosage of either of these medications, regardless of age, weight, or other medical conditions.
The recommended dose of the nonprescription version for weight loss or weight maintenance in adults is orlistat 60 mg capsules, taken with each meal that contains fat, up to three times daily. The recommended dose of the prescription version for weight loss or weight maintenance in adults and children age 12 and older is orlistat 120 mg, taken with each meal that contains fat, up to three times daily.
It is best if you take orlistat with the meal, but you can take it up to an hour after, if necessary (taking it later than one hour after the meal will make the drug less effective). If you skip a meal, or if you eat a meal without fat, you should also skip your orlistat dose.
(Click Orlistat Dosing for more information on using orlistat 60 mg capsules for weight loss. This article also discusses tips on effectively using the medicine.)
