Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Understanding Metformin vs Orlistat for Weight Management
When comparing metformin vs orlistat, it's important to understand these are different medications with distinct mechanisms. Metformin is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes, whilst orlistat is specifically licensed for weight management in adults with BMI 30+ or BMI 28+ with weight-related health conditions. Orlistat works by blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption in the gut, supporting weight loss alongside a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Orlistat 120mg vs Xenical 120mg: The Key Differences
Orlistat 120mg (generic) and Xenical 120mg (branded) contain identical active ingredients at the same dose, providing clinically equivalent effects. The primary difference lies in cost - generic orlistat offers significant savings without compromising effectiveness. At EverydayMeds, orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 84 capsules (4-week supply), reduced to £29.69 with code EDM10. Xenical 120mg costs £42.99 for the same quantity, or £38.69 with EDM10 - representing a £9 monthly saving with the generic option.
Complete Orlistat vs Xenical Pricing Comparison
Our transparent pricing demonstrates the value of choosing generic orlistat over branded Xenical. For 2-week supplies: orlistat 42 capsules cost £16.89 (£15.20 with EDM10) compared to Xenical's £21.50 (£19.35 with EDM10). Extended treatments show greater savings: 12-week supplies of orlistat cost £95.99 (£86.39 with EDM10) versus Xenical at £128.99 (£116.09 with EDM10). Both options require prescription following clinical assessment by our UK-licensed prescribers.
Alli 60mg: Lower-Strength Alternative
Alli 60mg provides half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat, offering a lower-strength starting point. Priced at £28.99 for 42 capsules (4-week supply) or £26.09 with EDM10, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat compared to 120mg formulations. Some patients prefer this gentler approach, though clinical effects are correspondingly reduced.
How Our Online Prescription Service Works
Accessing orlistat or Xenical through EverydayMeds involves completing an online health questionnaire covering medical history, current medications, and BMI information. UK-licensed prescribers review each application individually, issuing prescriptions where clinically appropriate. This regulated process eliminates GP appointment delays whilst maintaining full clinical oversight. Once prescribed, medications are dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy and delivered discreetly with next-day options available.
Making Your Choice: Generic vs Branded
Clinical evidence supports identical effectiveness between generic orlistat and branded Xenical. Your choice may depend on personal preference and budget considerations. Generic orlistat provides identical therapeutic benefits at lower cost, making it the practical choice for most patients. However, some individuals prefer branded medications. Both options undergo identical clinical assessment processes and maintain the same safety profiles when used alongside reduced-calorie, lower-fat diets.


