Bg pattern

XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES

Prescription review online

Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and decide whether a prescription is medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor about this medicine

Talk to a doctor about this medicine

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps in a quick online consultation.

This page is for general information. Consult a doctor for personal advice. Call emergency services if symptoms are severe.
About the medicine

How to use XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES

Translated with AI

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication. Seek urgent medical care if symptoms are severe.

Show original

Introduction

PACKAGE LEAFLET: INFORMATION FOR THE USER

XENICAL 120 mg hard capsules

Orlistat

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine, because it contains important information for you.

  • Keep this leaflet, as you may need to read it again.
  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.
  • If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

Contents of the pack:

  1. What Xenical is and what it is used for
  2. What you need to know before you take Xenical
  3. How to take Xenical
  4. Possible side effects
  5. Storage of Xenical
  6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What XENICAL is and what it is used for

Xenical is a medicine used to treat obesity. It works by preventing your body from absorbing the fat from the food you eat. Xenical attaches to the enzymes in your digestive system (lipases) and blocks them from breaking down some of the fat you have eaten. The undigested fat is then removed from your body in your stools.

Xenical is indicated for the treatment of obesity, in conjunction with a low-calorie diet.

Doctor consultation

Not sure if this medicine is right for you?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

2. What you need to know before you take XENICAL

Do not take XENICAL

  • If you are allergic (hypersensitive) to orlistat or any of the other ingredients of Xenical.
  • If you have chronic malabsorption syndrome (insufficient absorption of nutrients through the digestive tract).
  • If you have cholestasis (liver disorder).
  • If you are breast-feeding

Warnings and precautions

Weight loss may also affect the dose of other medicines you are taking (e.g. high cholesterol or diabetes). Make sure you inform your doctor if you are taking these or other medicines. Weight loss may mean that you need a dose adjustment of these medicines.

To get the most benefit from Xenical, you should follow the nutrition program recommended by your doctor. As with any weight-control program, eating too much fat or calories can reduce the effect of weight loss.

This medicine may cause a change in your bowel habits, such as the presence of oily stools or fatty stools, due to the elimination of undigested fat in your stools. The possibility of this happening may increase if Xenical is taken with a high-fat diet. Additionally, your daily intake of fat should be distributed evenly among your three main meals, as taking Xenical with a very high-fat meal may increase the possibility of gastrointestinal effects.

In case of severe diarrhea, there may be a failure of oral contraceptives, so it is recommended to use an additional contraceptive method.

In patients with chronic kidney disease, the use of Orlistat may be associated with kidney stones. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems.

This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per capsule; it is essentially "sodium-free".

Children

Xenical is not indicated for use in children.

Taking XENICAL with other medicines

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken or might take any other medicines.

This is important because using more than one medicine at the same time can increase or decrease their effect.

Xenical may alter the effect of:

  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin), so your doctor may need to monitor your blood coagulation.
  • Ciclosporin. Concomitant administration with ciclosporin is not recommended. Your doctor may need to monitor your ciclosporin plasma levels more frequently than usual.
  • Iodine salts and/or levothyroxine. They may cause cases of hypothyroidism and/or alterations in the control of hypothyroidism.
  • Amiodarone. Consult your doctor.
  • AIDS medications.
  • Medicines for depression, psychiatric disorders, or anxiety.

Xenical reduces the absorption of supplements of some fat-soluble nutrients, especially beta-carotene and vitamin E. Therefore, you should follow your doctor's advice and take a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Your doctor may recommend a multivitamin supplement.

Orlistat may alter anticonvulsant treatment by decreasing the absorption of antiepileptic medicines, which may lead to the occurrence of convulsions. Consult your doctor if you think the frequency or severity of convulsions has changed while taking Xenical with antiepileptic medicines.

Xenical is not recommended for those taking acarbose (an anti-diabetic drug used for type 2 diabetes).

Taking XENICAL with food, drink, and alcohol

Xenical can be taken immediately before, during, or up to one hour after a meal. The capsule should be swallowed with water.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

Xenical is not recommended during pregnancy.

You should not breast-feed your child during treatment with Xenical, as it is not known whether Xenical passes into breast milk.

Driving and using machines

Xenical has no known effect on the ability to drive or use machines.

3. How to take XENICAL

Follow your doctor's instructions exactly for taking Xenical. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

The recommended dose of Xenical is one 120 mg capsule taken with each of the three main meals of the day. It can be taken immediately before, during, or up to one hour after the meal. The capsule should be taken with water.

Xenical should be taken with a calorie-controlled diet, which is rich in fruits and vegetables and contains, on average, 30% of calories from fat. Your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein should be distributed over three meals. This means you will usually take one capsule at breakfast, one at lunch, and one at dinner. To achieve optimal benefits, avoid eating foods that contain fat between meals, such as biscuits, chocolate, or salty snacks.

Xenical works only in the presence of fat from your diet. Therefore, you do not need to take Xenical if you miss a meal or if you have a meal without fat.

If for any reason you have not taken your medicine exactly as prescribed, tell your doctor. Otherwise, your doctor may think that this medicine is not effective or well-tolerated and may change your treatment unnecessarily.

Your doctor will stop the treatment with Xenical if, after 12 weeks, you have not lost at least 5% of your initial body weight.

Xenical has been studied in clinical trials for up to 4 years.

If you take more XENICAL than you should

If you take more capsules than your doctor has told you, or if someone else takes your medicine accidentally, contact your doctor, pharmacist, or hospital, as you may need medical attention.

If you forget to take XENICAL

If you forget to take your medicine at any time, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is within one hour of eating and then continue as before. Do not take a double dose to make up for forgotten doses. If you have missed several doses, please inform your doctor and follow the advice given.

Do not change the prescribed dose yourself unless your doctor tells you to.

If you have any doubts about the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Medicine questions

Started taking the medicine and have questions?

Discuss your symptoms and treatment with a doctor online.

4. Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

If you do not feel well while taking Xenical, tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Most of the unwanted effects related to the use of Xenical are a result of its local action on the digestive system. These symptoms are generally mild, occur at the beginning of treatment, and are more likely to occur after meals that are high in fat.

Normally, these symptoms disappear if you continue with the treatment and follow the recommended diet.

Very common side effects (affect more than 1 in 10 people)

Headache, abdominal pain or discomfort, urgency or increased need to defecate, flatulence (gas) with fecal incontinence, oily or fatty stools, liquid stools, low blood sugar levels (experienced by some patients with type 2 diabetes)

Common side effects (affect between 1 and 10 in 100 people)

Rectal pain or discomfort, soft stools, incontinence (fecal), bloating (experienced by some patients with type 2 diabetes), changes in teeth and gums, irregular menstrual cycle, fatigue.

The following side effects have also been reported, but their frequency cannot be estimated from the available data:

Allergic reactions. The main symptoms are: itching, rash, hives (raised areas of skin that are usually very itchy and may be pale or red), severe difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and discomfort. Blisters on the skin (including blisters that burst). Diverticulitis. Rectal bleeding. Increases in liver enzyme levels may be detected in blood tests. Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver). The symptoms may include yellowing of the skin and eyes, itching, dark urine, stomach pain, and sensitivity of the liver (indicated by pain below the front of the rib cage on the right side), sometimes with loss of appetite. Stop taking Xenical if these symptoms appear and inform your doctor. Gallstones. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Oxalate nephropathy (developed by calcium oxalate that can cause kidney stones). See Chapter 2, Be especially careful with Xenical. Interactions with anticoagulants.

Reporting of side effects

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system listed in Annex V*. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5. Storage of XENICAL

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Blisters

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date stated on the pack.

Do not store above 25°C

Store in the original package and keep the blister in the outer packaging to protect from light and moisture.

Glass bottles

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date stated on the pack.

Do not store above 30°C

Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture

Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. This will help protect the environment.

6. Contents of the pack and other information

Composition of Xenical

  • The active substance is orlistat. Each capsule contains 120 mg of orlistat.
  • The other ingredients are microcrystalline cellulose (E460), sodium starch glycollate (type A), povidone (E1201), sodium lauryl sulfate, and talc. The capsule shell is composed of gelatin, carmine (E132), titanium dioxide (E171), and edible ink.

Appearance of the product and pack contents

Xenical is turquoise-colored capsules with the inscription "XENICAL 120" and are supplied in blister packs and glass bottles containing 21, 42, and 84 capsules.

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing authorization holder

CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH

Ziegelhof 24

17489 Greifswald

Germany

Manufacturer

CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH

Bahnhofstr. 1a

17498 Mesekenhagen

Germany

or

CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH

Ziegelhof 23-24

17489 Greifswald

Germany

Date of last revision of this leaflet

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency website http://www.ema.europa.eu/.

Online doctors for XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES

Discuss questions about XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES, including use, safety considerations and prescription review, subject to medical assessment and local regulations.

5.0 (5)
Doctor

Tomasz Grzelewski

Dermatology 21 years exp.

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques. For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance. Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults. In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions. Patients commonly seek his care for: 

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
  • food and medication allergies
  • urticaria, atopic dermatitis and skin reactions
  • recurrent infections in children
  • sports-related health questions
  • general family medicine concerns

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.

Camera Book a video appointment
€80
5.0 (181)
Doctor

Yevgen Yakovenko

General surgery 12 years exp.

Dr. Yevgen Yakovenko is a licensed surgeon and general practitioner in Spain and Germany. He specialises in general, paediatric, and oncological surgery, internal medicine, and pain management. He offers online consultations for adults and children, combining surgical precision with therapeutic support. Dr Yakovenko works with patients across different countries and provides care in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish.

Areas of medical expertise:

  • Acute and chronic pain: headaches, muscle and joint pain, back pain, abdominal pain, postoperative pain. Identifying the cause, selecting treatment, and creating a care plan.
  • Internal medicine: heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system. Management of chronic conditions, symptom control, second opinions.
  • Pre- and postoperative care: risk assessment, decision-making support, follow-up after surgery, rehabilitation strategies.
  • General and paediatric surgery: hernias, appendicitis, congenital conditions, both planned and urgent surgeries.
  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

Camera Book a video appointment
€50
0.0 (0)
Doctor

Joao Silva

General medicine 6 years exp.

Dr. João Silva is a physician with training and experience in the field of General and Family Medicine, dedicated to providing healthcare focused on the well-being and quality of life of his patients. Throughout his professional career, he has developed broad clinical competencies, striving to maintain a medical practice based on scientific evidence and continuous knowledge updates.

Between 2013 and 2019, he completed the Integrated Master's Degree in Medicine at the Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Porto, where he acquired a solid academic and clinical education.

Subsequently, between January 2021 and December 2021, he completed the General Internship at the Entre Douro e Vouga Hospital Center in Santa Maria da Feira, where he had the opportunity to work in different hospital settings and deepen his competencies in several areas of medicine.

From January 2022 until March 2026, he works as a Resident Physician in General and Family Medicine at USF Salvador Machado in Oliveira de Azeméis, developing clinical activities in primary healthcare, follow-up of chronic patients, and health promotion in the community.

Complementing his medical training, Dr. João Silva also completed a Postgraduate Degree in Continuing and Palliative Care at CESPU, strengthening his preparation in the comprehensive approach to patient care, especially in situations requiring prolonged care and multidisciplinary support.

Camera Book a video appointment
€55
0.0 (0)
Doctor

Bulat Garipov

General medicine 15 years exp.

Dr. Bulat Garipov is a radiologist with more than 15 years of experience, specializing in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Throughout his professional career, he has worked in leading diagnostic imaging centers, both in on-site practice and teleradiology, which has allowed him to develop a broad and versatile approach to radiology.

Over the years, he has gained solid experience in interpreting MRI studies in various areas, including:

  •  Neuroimaging
  •  Musculoskeletal system (MSK)
  •  Angiography
  •  Abdomen and pelvis
  •  Soft tissues

Additionally, Dr. Garipov is open to new collaboration opportunities in radiology and teleradiology projects. He offers his expertise in MRI, providing both first and second readings of studies, as well as advanced image interpretation, ensuring accurate and high-quality diagnostics.

You could consult Dr. Bulat Garipov in cases where accurate interpretation of MRI studies or a second expert opinion is required. His expertise is especially valuable in cases of suspected neurological conditions, back and joint pain, vascular disorders, as well as in the diagnosis of abdominal and pelvic diseases. The doctor also provides support in complex or unclear clinical situations, including the review of previously performed studies, which helps improve diagnostic accuracy and determine the optimal treatment strategy. A teleradiology format is available, allowing you to receive a professional opinion remotely.

Camera Book a video appointment
€80
5.0 (41)
Doctor

Anna Biriukova

General medicine 6 years exp.

Dr Anna Biriukova is an internal medicine doctor with clinical experience in cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology. She provides online consultations for adults, offering expert medical support for heart health, hormonal balance, digestive issues, and general internal medicine.

Cardiology – Diagnosis and treatment of:

  • High blood pressure, blood pressure fluctuations, and cardiovascular risk prevention.
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, arrhythmias (tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations).
  • Leg swelling, chronic fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance.
  • EKG interpretation, lipid profile evaluation, cardiovascular risk assessment (heart attack, stroke).
  • Post-COVID-19 cardiac monitoring and care.
Endocrinology – Diabetes, thyroid, metabolism:
  • Diagnosis and management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes.
  • Individual treatment plans including oral medications and insulin therapy.
  • GLP-1 therapy– modern pharmacological treatment for weight management and diabetes control, including drug selection, monitoring, and safety follow-up.
  • Thyroid disorders – hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid diseases (Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease).
  • Metabolic syndrome – obesity, lipid disorders, insulin resistance.
Gastroenterology – Digestive health:
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
  • Stomach and intestinal conditions: gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion.
  • Management of chronic digestive disorders and interpretation of tests (endoscopy, ultrasound, labs).
General internal medicine and preventive care:
  • Respiratory infections – cough, colds, bronchitis.
  • Lab test analysis, therapy adjustments, medication management.
  • Adult vaccinations – planning, contraindications assessment.
  • Cancer prevention – screening strategies and risk assessment.
  • Holistic approach – symptom relief, complication prevention, and quality of life improvement.
Dr Biriukova combines internal medicine with specialist insight, offering clear explanations, personalised treatment plans, and comprehensive care tailored to each patient.
Camera Book a video appointment
€60

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a prescription required for XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES?
XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES requires a prescription in Spain. You can check with a doctor online whether this medicine may be appropriate for your situation.
What is the active substance in XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES?
The active ingredient in XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES is orlistat. This information helps identify medicines with the same composition but different brand names.
Who manufactures XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES?
XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES is manufactured by Cheplapharm Arzneimittel Gmbh. Pharmacy brands and packaging may differ depending on the distributor.
Which doctors can assess the use of XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES online?
Doctors such as Family doctors, Psychiatrists, Dermatologists, Cardiologists, Endocrinologists, Gastroenterologists, Pulmonologists, Nephrologists, Rheumatologists, Hematologists, Infectious disease physicians, Allergists, Geriatricians, Paediatricians, Oncologists may assess whether XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES is appropriate, depending on your situation and local regulations. You can book an online consultation to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.
What are the alternatives to XENICAL 120 mg HARD CAPSULES?
Other medicines with the same active substance (orlistat) include ALLI 60 mg HARD CAPSULES ORLISTAT, ALLI 60 mg HARD CAPSULES, ALLI 60 mg HARD CAPSULES. These may have different brand names or formulations but contain the same therapeutic ingredient. Always consult a doctor before switching or starting a new medicine.
bg-pattern-dark

Stay informed about Oladoctor

News about new services, product updates and useful information for patients.

Follow us on social media