Orlistat vs Xenical: Which Should You Choose?
Why Your Orlistat May Not Be Working
If orlistat isn't delivering the weight management support you expected, several factors could be affecting its effectiveness. Both generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg contain the same active ingredient and work identically - they block approximately one third of dietary fat absorption. The issue may not be the specific product you're using, but rather how you're taking it or your dietary approach.
Orlistat works best when combined with a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet containing no more than 30% fat calories. High-fat meals not only increase side effects but may reduce the medication's effectiveness for weight management. Taking orlistat with each main meal containing fat - up to three times daily - ensures optimal fat-blocking action.
Generic Orlistat vs Branded Xenical
The key difference between orlistat and Xenical is price, not clinical effectiveness. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for a 4-week supply (£29.69 with EDM10), while branded Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10) - saving you approximately £9 monthly by choosing the generic option.
Both products contain orlistat 120mg and require prescription following clinical assessment by a UK-licensed prescriber. Some patients prefer branded Xenical due to familiarity with the manufacturer (Roche), while others choose generic orlistat for cost-effectiveness. Clinically, both will block approximately one third of dietary fat when taken as directed.
Available Pack Sizes and Pricing
Choose the supply duration that suits your weight management plan. Generic orlistat costs £16.89 for 2 weeks (£15.20 with EDM10), £32.99 for 4 weeks (£29.69 with EDM10), £63.99 for 8 weeks (£57.59 with EDM10), or £95.99 for 12 weeks (£86.39 with EDM10).
Xenical pricing starts at £21.50 for 2 weeks (£19.35 with EDM10), £42.99 for 4 weeks (£38.69 with EDM10), £86.99 for 8 weeks (£78.29 with EDM10), or £128.99 for 12 weeks (£116.09 with EDM10). Use code EDM10 for 10% off every order.
Consider Alli 60mg as an Alternative
If 120mg orlistat is causing intolerable side effects, Alli 60mg may provide a gentler introduction to orlistat treatment. At half the prescription strength, Alli blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat but typically causes milder gastrointestinal side effects. Alli costs £28.99 for 4 weeks (£26.09 with EDM10) and doesn't require prescription.
Getting the Right Prescription Online
Our UK-licensed prescribers can assess whether switching between orlistat and Xenical, adjusting your approach, or trying Alli 60mg might better support your weight management goals. Complete our online clinical assessment, and if appropriate, we'll issue your prescription and dispatch from our GPhC-registered pharmacy with next-day delivery available across the UK.
