Choose Your Orlistat: Generic vs Branded Comparison
How to Take Orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg
Both orlistat and Xenical contain identical 120mg orlistat and follow the same dosing schedule. Take one capsule three times daily with each main meal containing fat — immediately before, during, or up to one hour after eating. If you miss a meal or eat a fat-free meal, skip that dose. Never exceed three capsules per day.
The key to minimising side effects is keeping fat intake low — approximately 15g fat per meal. This approach helps both orlistat and Xenical work effectively while reducing gastrointestinal side effects like oily stools or fatty discharge.
Orlistat vs Xenical: Price Comparison
Generic orlistat offers significant savings without compromising effectiveness. A 4-week supply (84 capsules) costs £29.69 with EDM10, compared to Xenical at £38.69 — saving you over £100 annually. For 12-week supplies, orlistat costs £86.39 versus Xenical's £116.09, representing a £30 saving per three-month treatment.
Both medications work identically — they block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption through the same mechanism. The active ingredient, dose, and clinical effect are identical. Your choice comes down to personal preference and budget considerations.
Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Choose generic orlistat if you want maximum value without sacrificing effectiveness. The medication undergoes the same quality controls and delivers identical results to Xenical. Many patients prefer orlistat for long-term weight management due to the cost savings.
Choose Xenical if you prefer branded medication from Roche. Some patients feel more confident with the original branded version, though clinically there's no difference in how you take either medication or their effectiveness.
Don't Forget Alli 60mg
Alli provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat at 60mg per capsule. While less potent than 120mg options, Alli may suit those preferring a gentler starting approach. Alli costs £26.09 for 4 weeks with EDM10 and follows the same three-times-daily dosing schedule with fat-containing meals.
How to Order Your Chosen Treatment
Complete our online clinical assessment for professional review by a UK-licensed prescriber. If approved, your chosen medication ships next day from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy. Whether you select orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, remember to use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.


