If you’ve tried Orlistat (also known as Xenical or the over-the-counter version, Alli) and haven’t seen the results you hoped for — or found the side effects difficult to manage — you’re not alone. While Orlistat has helped some patients lose weight by reducing fat absorption, it isn’t always effective or suitable for everyone.

That’s where Mounjaro, a new and exciting option in medical weight management, could offer a more effective path forward.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we support patients through safe, medically supervised weight loss journeys — including access to the latest treatment options. If Orlistat didn’t work for you, here’s why Mounjaro weight loss treatment might be the right next step.

Why Orlistat Isn’t for Everyone

Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of fat in the gut. When you eat a high-fat meal, the unabsorbed fat is excreted through your digestive system — which can lead to unpleasant side effects like oily stools, flatulence, and an urgent need to visit the toilet.

These side effects, combined with the dietary restrictions required to minimise them, can make adherence difficult. More importantly, many patients don’t experience significant weight loss, especially if lifestyle changes are inconsistent or underlying hormonal drivers of hunger are not addressed.

If you’ve been frustrated by Orlistat or found that the weight came back after stopping treatment, it may be time to consider a more advanced and holistic approach.

Enter Mounjaro: Dual-Action Weight Loss Support

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is an injectable medication originally developed for type 2 diabetes, but it has shown remarkable results in weight loss — even in people without diabetes.

What makes Mounjaro different from other treatments is its dual action. It mimics not one, but two key hormonesinvolved in appetite and blood sugar control: GLP-1 (like Wegovy) and GIP. Together, these hormones help:

• –> Reduce hunger and cravings

• –> Improve satiety (helping you feel full sooner and for longer)

• –> Slow digestion

• –> Stabilise blood sugar levels (which can reduce energy crashes and snacking)

This combination targets the biological and behavioural aspects of weight gain, offering more consistent and powerful results than many older medications.

What Results Can You Expect with Mounjaro?

Clinical trials have shown that patients using Mounjaro can achieve an average weight loss of 15–20% of their body weight when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity. This is significantly more than what is typically seen with Orlistat or even some other GLP-1 medications.

Patients often report:

• –> Reduced portion sizes

• –> Decreased snacking and emotional eating

• –> More control over their eating habits

Most importantly, weight loss with Mounjaro is often sustainable, with patients continuing to lose weight over several months.

Switching Safely with Pharmacy Support

Moving from Orlistat to Mounjaro isn’t just a matter of swapping tablets for injections. It requires a personalised, medically supervised plan. At Eltham Pharmacy, we offer one-to-one consultations to ensure:

• –> You meet the eligibility criteria for Mounjaro (based on BMI and health status)

• –> You receive guidance on dosing and injection technique

• –> You are monitored for side effects and treatment progress

• –> You have support with meal planning, exercise goals, and motivation

We also help you understand what to expect in the first few weeks, such as mild nausea or digestive changes, and how to manage these symptoms effectively.

Is Mounjaro Right for You?

Mounjaro may be suitable if:

• –> You have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ with weight-related conditions (e.g. high blood pressure, prediabetes, PCOS)

• –> You’ve tried other weight loss methods, including Orlistat, without lasting success

• –> You are ready to commit to a structured, pharmacy-supported programme

• –> You’re seeking an option with proven, long-term effectiveness

If you’re unsure, our pharmacy team can help assess your suitability and discuss alternative options. Reach out to us today.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If Orlistat hasn’t helped you reach your goals, don’t give up. The science of weight loss is evolving — and Mounjaro weight loss treatment is leading the way for patients who need more than diet and willpower alone.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we’re here to provide guidance, medical support, and ongoing care throughout your journey. Our mission is to help you feel better, lose weight safely, and make changes that last.

Book a private consultation today to find out if Mounjaro could be your next step. Let’s make progress — together.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.