Orlistat vs Wegovy for Weight Loss

Orlistat and Wegovy are two medications commonly used to aid in weight loss. Orlistat, available both as a generic medication and under the brand name Xenical, works by reducing the absorption of dietary fats. Wegovy, on the other hand, is an injectable medication that mimics a hormone involved in regulating appetite and insulin production. Both have shown effectiveness in promoting weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

When comparing the effectiveness of Orlistat and Wegovy as weight loss treatments, clinical studies indicate that Wegovy produces more significant weight loss.

• Orlistat: Studies have shown that Orlistat can help patients lose about 5-10% of their body weight over a year when combined with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise.
• Wegovy: Clinical trials have demonstrated that Wegovy can lead to weight loss of 15-20% over a similar period, making it one of the most effective weight loss medications available.

Wegovy is generally considered more effective for weight loss due to its ability to manage insulin levels and more significantly reduce appetite and food intake (compared to Orlistat).

Orlistat and Wegovy work through different mechanisms to aid in weight loss.

• Orlistat: Orlistat inhibits the action of the enzyme lipase in the digestive tract, preventing about 25-30% of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat is then excreted in the stool.
• Wegovy: Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate appetite, slows gastric emptying, and increases insulin production in response to meals, thereby reducing food intake and promoting weight loss.

The cost of treatment with Orlistat and Wegovy can vary based on factors such as location, insurance coverage, and whether you are purchasing the branded or generic version.

• Orlistat: Typically costs around £50 per month for the generic version.
• Wegovy: More expensive, ranging from £170-£270 per month, depending on the strength of the dose.
  

Over a year, the cost for Orlistat might be approximately £600, whereas Wegovy could cost £2600.

Both Orlistat and Wegovy have potential side effects, but they differ in nature due to their different mechanisms of action.

• Orlistat: Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as oily or fatty stools, flatulence with discharge, frequent or urgent bowel movements, and abdominal discomfort. Most of these can be reduced by reducing the amount of fat in the diet.
• Wegovy: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain. Some patients may also experience headaches and dizziness.

Wegovy’s side effects are often related to its effect on the digestive system and appetite regulation, while Orlistat’s side effects are primarily due to unabsorbed dietary fat.

• Orlistat: Taken orally three times a day with each main meal containing fat. The standard dose is 120 mg per tablet.
• Wegovy: Administered via injection once weekly, providing a steady release of medication.

The mode of administration is a significant difference, with Orlistat being an oral medication and Wegovy requiring injections.

Orlistat: High-fat meals can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. It is recommended to follow a low-fat diet. Orlistat can also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and certain medications. A multivitamin supplement should be taken at least two hours before or after taking Orlistat.

Wegovy: Less impacted by food but can interact with other medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar levels. It’s important to follow dietary guidelines and discuss with a healthcare provider to manage potential interactions. Some people experience problems with injections, including phobia, infection and skin reactions.

Both Orlistat and Wegovy are widely available in the UK with a prescription.

• Orlistat: Available over the counter and by prescription. The over-the-counter version is often sold under the brand name Alli.
• Wegovy: Available by prescription only.

Orlistat and Wegovy offer effective options for weight loss, but they work in different ways. Wegovy tends to be more effective in promoting weight loss due to its impact on appetite regulation but comes at a higher cost and requires injections. Orlistat, while less expensive and orally administered, works by reducing fat absorption and may cause more gastrointestinal side effects.

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.