Orlistat vs Ozempic: What’s The Difference ?

Key differences between Ozempic and Orlistat

The table below gives an overview of Orlistat vs Ozempic vs Wegovy and what their key differences are.

Mechanism and ingredients

Orlistat and Wegovy work with completely different biological mechanisms for their distinct and target weight loss approach.

Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor, which reduces the body's ability to absorb fat. The enzyme is found in the digestive system and breaks down fat from food into smaller particles, which gets absorbed by the intestines. 

By suppressing the production of lipase, Orlistat decreases the amount of fat your body absorbs, helping reduce overall calorie intake. It's typically recommended to be used alongside a low fat diet.

Ozempic is a GLP-1 medication with the active ingredient semaglutide, licensed in the UK to treat type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is licensed for weight loss management and shares the same active ingredient. They are injectable medications that mimic the effects of a natural hormone that gets released into the blood after eating. It helps to regulate appetite, helping you feel fuller for longer and supports blood sugar control.

Dosage and administration

While both Orlistat and Wegovy have active ingredients to support weight management, they differ significantly in how they’re taken, dosed, licensed and accessed.

Orlistat is a capsule taken orally. It's normally taken 3 times a day with a meal that contains fat. It's available in different strengths: 

• Alli (60mg) - available over the counter without a prescription.

• Xenical (120mg) - available by prescription only

• Orlistat is most effective when used with a low fat diet, as a higher fat diet can increase the risks of digestive side effects

Ozempic and Wegovy are a weekly injectable titration medication, where the dosage is increased over time. The minimum dose is 0.25mg and the maximum is 2mg. 

• Ozempic is a prescription only medication and licensed in the UK to treat type 2 diabetes

• Wegovy is a prescription only medication and licensed for weight loss management in the UK

• They are most effective when used with a calorie controlled diet and an exercise program

Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional when starting or switching medications, as dosage and administration can vary based on individual needs.

Effectiveness and clinical outcomes

Clinical trial data highlights the Orlistat vs Ozempic weight loss outcomes.

Orlistat has been shown to support weight loss of up to 10% of body weight, over 52 weeks. This is when combined with a calorie controlled, low fat diet and an active lifestyle. 

Ozempic, while primarily studied in clinical trials for type 2 diabetes, has demonstrated weight loss benefits as an additional outcome. Although the trials did show a moderate weight reduction, the medication isn't licensed for weight loss in the UK. For those who were taking a higher dosage of semaglutide, Wegovy, which is specifically designed and licensed for weight loss management, the average weight loss was up to 17.4% over 68 weeks. This was when combined with a calorie controlled diet and exercise routine.

Side effects of Ozempic vs Orlistat

Costs of Ozempic vs Orlistat

When considering weight loss treatments, cost and accessibility can play a part in choosing the right option. Below is an overview for costs and availability for Orlistat vs Ozempic.

*is the average cost for a month's supply of the medication at your dosage. 

Which weight loss treatment is right for me?

Choosing the right weight treatment depends on your goals, your health profile and whether you have a preference towards medicated weight loss support. Some people are more comfortable with tablets, while others may consider injectable treatments. While both options can be effective, injectable medications generally result in greater weight loss over a similar time period.

Injectable options like Ozempic became widely known as a weight loss option but it currently does not have a license in the UK for weight loss. Instead, the Ozempic alternative, Wegovy (also contains the active ingredient semaglutide) is another GLP-1 medication that’s approved specifically for weight management.

Tablet or capsule medications like Orlistat (available as Xenical with a prescription) are also available in the UK as medicated weight loss. This type of medication may be more suitable for some individuals depending on their medical history and treatment preferences.

Can I switch from Orlistat to a GLP-1 treatment?

Yes, you can. Some people find that they may not see the results they hoped for with Orlistat and may consider a GLP-1 alternative. They do work differently, as Orlistat affects the fat absorption in the body compared to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. They target appetite regulation, slow the digestion rate down and control the blood sugar, which can lead to more effective and sustainable weight loss for some people.

Switching to a GLP-1 medication isn't as quick as buying over the counter medication. It requires you to have a consultation with a clinician and you need to meet certain requirements. They include what your current BMI is, any health conditions you have and your medical history will be reviewed.

If you're thinking about making the switch, speak to our clinical team who can review your individual medical needs. They'll guide you on the most appropriate next steps for your weight loss journey.

Can I be prescribed Ozempic for weight loss?

In line with MHRA guidance on off-licence prescribing, we do not prescribe or supply Ozempic for weight loss. Any reference to Ozempic is provided only to address common search queries and to clarify that Wegovy is the licensed semaglutide product specifically approved for weight management in the UK.

Start your weight loss journey

Starting your weight loss journey can feel daunting, but the right guidance and treatment can make all the difference. Both Orlistat and Wegovy are clinically approved options for weight management when used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you’re unsure which treatment may be right for you, completing an online consultation allows our clinician to review your health and help you choose the most suitable option for your goals. Begin your consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you

Advice and information to support weight loss