Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Same Medicine, Different Price
Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical contain identical orlistat 120mg as the active ingredient. They work in exactly the same way - inhibiting lipase enzymes in your gut to block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, supporting weight management alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
How to Take Both Products
Whether you choose orlistat or Xenical, the dosing is identical. Take one 120mg capsule three times daily - immediately before, during, or up to one hour after each main meal containing fat. If you skip a meal or eat a fat-free meal, you can skip that dose. Maximum three capsules per day, spread across your main meals.
Price Comparison
Generic orlistat offers substantial savings whilst delivering identical clinical effects. For a 4-week supply (84 capsules): generic orlistat costs £29.69 with code EDM10, compared to Xenical at £38.69 - saving you £9 per month. Over 12 weeks, you save £29.70 by choosing generic orlistat (£86.39) versus Xenical (£116.09).
Consider Alli 60mg Alternative
For those preferring lower-strength treatment, Alli 60mg offers half the dose of prescription orlistat. At £26.09 for 4 weeks (with EDM10), it provides a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment, though with reduced fat-blocking effect compared to 120mg products.
Online Prescription Process
Following completion of our online health questionnaire, a UK-licensed prescriber reviews your suitability for orlistat 120mg or Xenical. If clinically appropriate, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly next day. The prescription is included in the price - no separate GP appointment needed.
Maximising Treatment Success
Both orlistat and Xenical work best when combined with a structured weight management programme. Keep dietary fat to approximately 15g per meal to minimise gastrointestinal side effects whilst maximising weight loss support. Take a daily multivitamin at bedtime to replace fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) that may be reduced during treatment.
