Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Identical Active Ingredients, Different Prices
Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain the same active ingredient at identical doses. This means they work exactly the same way - blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption through lipase enzyme inhibition. The foods to avoid remain identical whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, as both require careful fat intake management to minimise gastrointestinal side effects.
Essential Foods to Limit on Both Treatments
Whether taking orlistat or Xenical, keeping meals below 15g fat is crucial. High-fat foods significantly increase side effects including oily stools, urgent bowel movements, and anal leakage. Avoid or severely limit fried foods, fatty meats, full-fat dairy, nuts, oils, and processed foods high in fat. Both medications work by allowing unabsorbed fat to pass through your system, so higher fat intake directly correlates with more pronounced side effects.
Cost Comparison: Significant Savings with Generic
Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst branded Xenical costs £42.99 for the same period (£38.69 with EDM10). Over 12 weeks, you save approximately £27 by choosing generic orlistat at £95.99 versus Xenical at £128.99. Both require identical dietary management and produce the same clinical effects, making generic orlistat the cost-effective choice for most patients.
Lower-Strength Alternative: Alli 60mg
For those preferring a gentler approach, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. Whilst requiring the same dietary caution, the lower dose typically produces milder side effects. Available at £54.99 for 8 weeks (£49.49 with EDM10), Alli provides an alternative starting point for weight management support.
Simple Online Prescription Process
Both orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment. Complete our online health questionnaire, reviewed by UK-licensed prescribers who assess suitability based on BMI and health factors. If approved, medication is dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with next day delivery available. The same rigorous assessment applies to both options.
Making Your Decision
Choose generic orlistat 120mg for maximum value whilst maintaining identical clinical effects to Xenical. Both require the same low-fat dietary approach, prescription process, and produce equivalent weight management support when used alongside reduced-calorie eating plans. Use code EDM10 for 10% off your first order of either option.
