Compare Orlistat Options: Find Your Weight Loss Solution
Xenical vs Alli: Understanding Your Prescription Weight Loss Options
When considering prescription weight loss treatment in the UK, understanding the differences between Xenical, generic orlistat, and Alli can support your treatment decision. All three medications contain orlistat as the active ingredient, which works by blocking the absorption of approximately one third of dietary fat in your digestive system. However, they differ in strength, cost, and prescription requirements.
Orlistat 120mg: The Generic Prescription Option
Generic orlistat 120mg offers the most cost-effective prescription weight loss treatment. At £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), it provides identical clinical effects to branded Xenical at significant savings. Our 8-week supply costs £63.99 (£57.59 with discount), whilst a 12-week treatment course is £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10). Each capsule contains 120mg of orlistat, taken three times daily with main meals containing fat.
Xenical 120mg: The Branded Prescription Treatment
Xenical, manufactured by Roche, contains the same 120mg dose of orlistat as the generic version. Priced at £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10), some patients prefer the branded option. An 8-week supply costs £86.99 (£78.29 with discount), and 12-week treatment is £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10). Both generic orlistat and Xenical require prescription following clinical assessment.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli provides half the dose at 60mg per capsule, offering a lower-strength starting point for weight management. A 4-week supply costs £28.99 (£26.09 with EDM10), with 8-week treatment at £54.99 (£49.49 with discount). The 12-week option costs £129.99 (£116.99 with EDM10). Alli may be suitable for those preferring a gentler approach to weight loss support.
How Orlistat Supports Weight Management
Regardless of whether you choose generic orlistat, Xenical, or Alli, the mechanism remains consistent. Orlistat works as a lipase inhibitor, preventing approximately one third of dietary fat from being absorbed in your digestive system. This unabsorbed fat passes naturally through your body, potentially reducing calorie intake when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet and increased physical activity.
Clinical Assessment and Prescription Process
All orlistat treatments at 120mg require prescription following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers. Our online consultation process reviews your medical history, current medications, and weight management goals. Prescriptions are issued where clinically appropriate, typically for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 28 and above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Maximising Treatment Success
Successful weight management with orlistat depends on dietary adherence alongside medication. Keeping meals to approximately 15g of fat helps minimise gastrointestinal side effects whilst supporting the medication's effectiveness. A daily multivitamin supplement taken at bedtime is recommended, as orlistat may reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Order Your Prescription Weight Loss Treatment Today
Ready to start your weight management journey? Complete our online clinical assessment for same-day prescriber review. With 10% off every order using code EDM10, free next-day delivery, and dispensing from our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy, accessing prescription weight loss treatment has never been more convenient. All prices include the prescription consultation, with no hidden fees or additional GP appointments required.


