Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Same Clinical Effect, Different Prices
Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain identical active ingredients at the same dose. Both work by inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body. Clinically, there's no difference in effectiveness—the choice comes down to personal preference and budget.
Generic orlistat offers significant savings: a 4-week supply costs £29.69 (with EDM10) compared to £38.69 for branded Xenical. Over 12 weeks, you could save £29.70 by choosing generic orlistat at £86.39 versus Xenical at £116.09.
Complete Price Comparison
Orlistat 120mg pricing: 2 weeks £15.20, 4 weeks £29.69, 8 weeks £57.59, 12 weeks £86.39 (all with EDM10). Xenical 120mg pricing: 2 weeks £19.35, 4 weeks £38.69, 8 weeks £78.29, 12 weeks £116.09 (with EDM10). Both require the same online clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
For those preferring a lower-strength option, Alli 60mg provides half the dose at £26.09 for 4 weeks, £49.49 for 8 weeks, or £116.99 for 12 weeks (with EDM10). This may suit individuals wanting to start with a gentler approach, though clinical effectiveness is correspondingly reduced.
How All Three Options Work
Whether you choose orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, the mechanism remains the same. Each capsule inhibits lipase enzymes in your digestive system, preventing approximately one third (for 120mg versions) or a smaller proportion (for Alli 60mg) of dietary fat from being absorbed. This works best alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet with no more than 15g fat per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects.
All three products require commitment to dietary changes. They're designed to support weight management, not replace healthy eating habits. Taking your chosen treatment with each main meal containing fat maximises effectiveness whilst maintaining tolerability.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat for maximum value without compromising effectiveness. Select Xenical if you prefer the reassurance of branded medication from Roche. Consider Alli 60mg for a lower-strength starting point. All options are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy following clinical assessment and delivered discreetly with next day tracked shipping.
Start your weight management journey today. Complete our online clinical assessment, save 10% with code EDM10, and receive your chosen treatment tomorrow. Our UK-licensed prescribers will review your suitability and issue a prescription where clinically appropriate.
