Orlistat vs Xenical vs Alli: Price & Strength Guide
Does Alli Work for Weight Loss? Comparing Your Options
Alli, Orlistat, and Xenical all contain the same fat-blocking ingredient - orlistat. The question isn't whether Alli works, but which strength and brand offers the best value for your weight management goals. Orlistat works by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, supporting weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Orlistat 120mg vs Xenical 120mg: Identical Effect, Different Price
Both Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain exactly the same active ingredient at the same dose. The clinical effect is identical - both block the same amount of dietary fat absorption. The only meaningful difference is cost. Generic Orlistat 120mg costs £29.69 for a 4-week supply (with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £38.69 - a saving of £9 per month by choosing the generic option. Both require a prescription following clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. Whilst clinically less potent than the 120mg versions, Alli may be suitable for those preferring a lower-strength starting point. At £26.09 for a 4-week supply (with EDM10), Alli offers a middle-ground option between no treatment and full prescription strength. However, the reduced dose means it blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to 120mg formulations.
Which Should You Buy? Our Recommendation
For maximum clinical effect and best value, generic Orlistat 120mg offers the optimal combination. You'll get the full prescription strength at the lowest cost - £57.59 for an 8-week supply with code EDM10, compared to £78.29 for equivalent Xenical. However, some patients prefer branded Xenical, and that's a valid choice. If you're concerned about starting at full strength, Alli 60mg provides a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment.
How to Order Online Through EverydayMeds
Our online prescription service eliminates the need for a GP appointment. Complete our clinical assessment questionnaire, which covers your medical history, current medications, and BMI details. A UK-licensed prescriber reviews your information and issues a prescription where clinically appropriate. Your chosen treatment is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy in Leicester and delivered discreetly to your address with next-day delivery available.
Pricing Comparison: All Options
Orlistat 120mg: 2 weeks £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, 12 weeks £86.39 (with EDM10). Xenical 120mg: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09 (with EDM10). Alli 60mg: 4 weeks £26.09, 8 weeks £49.49, 12 weeks £116.99 (with EDM10). Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order, available to new and returning customers.
Important Safety Information
All orlistat products may cause gastrointestinal side effects, particularly when eating high-fat meals. Keep your fat intake to approximately 15g per meal to minimise side effects. Most patients experience fewer side effects as they adapt to a lower-fat diet. Orlistat is prescription-only at 120mg strength and requires clinical assessment to determine suitability. Always follow guidance from your prescriber and seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
