Alli is available following consultation with a pharmacist or as a prescription-only medicine. This information is intended for patients who have completed an online consultation and have been prescribed Alli. Always read the patient information leaflet.
What is Alli and how does it work?
Alli contains orlistat and can help adults who are overweight lose weight. It blocks digestive enzymes called lipases from breaking down some dietary fat. The unabsorbed fat passes out in your stool.
Clinical studies show that orlistat blocks approximately 25–33% of consumed fat. Its effects and gastrointestinal side effects are strongly influenced by your diet.
Who is Alli suitable for?
Alli is suitable for patients with a BMI of 28 or above.
Do not take Alli if you
Have chronic malabsorption syndrome or cholestasis.
Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are allergic to orlistat or any capsule ingredient.
Take ciclosporin, warfarin, or another anticoagulant.
How to use Alli
Use Alli with a nutritionally balanced, reduced-calorie diet containing approximately 30% of its calories from fat. Distribute your fat, carbohydrate, and protein intake across three main meals.
Take one capsule with water immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal. Skip the dose if you miss a meal or the meal contains no fat. Do not take more than three capsules per day.
Because Alli can reduce absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K, take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime.
If you take too much
If you take more than directed, seek medical attention from your GP or NHS 111.
Side effects
Common gastrointestinal effects include:
Oily spotting.
Gas with discharge.
Urgent or more frequent bowel movements.
Fatty or oily stools.
Soft or liquid stools.
Stomach pain.
Bowel leakage.
Bloating, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes.
Other possible effects include headache, fatigue, anxiety, respiratory or urinary infections, menstrual irregularity, dental or gum problems, and low blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Gastrointestinal effects are usually mild and temporary. They may begin within 24–48 hours and normally resolve within 48–72 hours after stopping treatment.
⚠️ Stop taking Alli and consult your GP if you develop a serious allergic reaction, rectal bleeding, diverticulitis symptoms, hepatitis symptoms, gallstones, or pancreatitis.
Storage
Keep the blister pack inside the outer carton to protect it from light and moisture. Store below 25°C.
Ingredients
The capsule contains orlistat with microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, povidone, sodium laurilsulfate, and talc. The shell contains gelatine, indigo carmine, titanium dioxide, sodium laurilsulfate, sorbitan monolaurate, polysorbate 80, and printing ink.
For questions, email [email protected]. For urgent medical attention, call NHS 111 or attend A&E.