Orlistat vs Xenical: Making Your Purchase Decision
Same Medicine, Different Prices: Orlistat vs Xenical
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded 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, they're equivalent - the key difference is cost.
Our 4-week supply prices show significant savings with generic orlistat: £32.99 (£29.69 with EDM10) compared to Xenical at £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). That's over £100 annual savings choosing generic orlistat whilst achieving the same clinical effect.
Diet Requirements for Both Orlistat and Xenical
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, both require the same dietary approach. Your daily fat intake should not exceed approximately 30% of total calories, spread evenly across three main meals. This means roughly 15g fat per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects like oily stools or urgent bowel movements.
High-fat meals significantly increase side effects with both medications. A reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet isn't just recommended - it's essential for the medication to work effectively and comfortably. Consider a daily multivitamin taken at bedtime, as both medicines may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Alli 60mg: The Lower-Strength Alternative
For those preferring a gentler start, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £28.99 for a 4-week supply (£26.09 with EDM10), it blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat with typically milder side effects. However, clinical effectiveness is correspondingly lower than the 120mg prescription options.
Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Most patients choose generic orlistat for its cost-effectiveness without sacrificing clinical benefit. Some prefer branded Xenical for personal preference or brand familiarity. Both require prescription following online clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Your choice comes down to budget versus brand preference. Generic orlistat from £15.20 (2-week supply with EDM10) offers identical results to Xenical from £19.35. Both are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next day delivery across the UK.
Start Your Clinical Assessment Today
Complete our online health questionnaire for orlistat or Xenical. Our qualified prescribers review every application, prescribing where clinically appropriate for adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions. Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order - new and returning customers welcome.
